George III London Assurance Britannia Plaque – Hallmarked Sterling Silver, Hennell Family, London, Circa 1801

Details

Description

George III London Assurance Britannia Plaque – Hallmarked Sterling Silver, Hennell Family, London, Circa 1801
A rare and historically significant … Read more George III London Assurance Britannia Plaque – Hallmarked Sterling Silver, Hennell Family, London, Circa 1801
A rare and historically significant George III sterling silver plaque associated with the London Assurance Corporation, one of the earliest insurance institutions in the world. Finely cast and chased, this early 19th-century piece embodies neoclassical design, corporate heritage, and exceptional London silversmithing.
Description
This finely detailed plaque depicts an allegorical female figure—Britannia or Assurance—seated with classical shield, staff, and harp. The inscription “LONDON ASSURANCE” appears above, with the number “13” below, suggesting an internal or institutional reference.
Executed in high relief, the composition demonstrates crisp casting and refined chasing. Flowing drapery, balanced iconography, and polished highlights contrast beautifully with deeper recessed tones, creating a sculptural, medallion-like effect. The craftsmanship reflects the precision and quality associated with leading Georgian London workshops.
Material & Technique
Sterling silver (hallmarked)
High relief casting with detailed hand chasing
Approx. weight: 7.8 troy oz (243 grams)
Makers
Bearing the maker’s mark RH / DH, attributed to Robert Hennell I and David Hennell II, a prominent London silversmithing partnership active around the turn of the 19th century. The Hennell family were renowned for their refined neoclassical designs and high-quality execution, with works held in major collections.
Hallmarks
Full London assay marks including:
Lion passant (sterling standard)
Crowned leopard’s head (London assay office)
Duty mark (George III)
Date letter (circa 1801)
Maker’s mark: RH / DH
Historical Significance
The plaque relates to the London Assurance Corporation (chartered 1720), a key institution in the development of modern insurance following the South Sea Bubble and the Bubble Act. Objects of this nature reflect early corporate identity, maritime insurance, and Britain’s expanding commercial power.
Symbolism
Britannia: national strength and protection
Harp: links to Ireland and trade networks
Shield (City of London): financial authority and trust
Dimensions
Height: 17 cm (6.7 in)
Width: 14 cm (5.5 in)
Depth: 0.6 cm (0.24 in)
Provenance
Private UK collection
Acquired via notable east Cheshire Auction House
Curated by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD

Why It Works
Authentic George III hallmarked silver
By the esteemed Hennell workshop
Rare corporate artifact tied to early financial history
Strong neoclassical design with rich symbolic detail
Decorative and historically compelling
A compelling piece for collectors of Georgian silver, financial history, or neoclassical decorative arts—offering both visual impact and historical depth. See less