Antique Queen Anne Britannia Silver Porringer with 1709 Half Crown, 1709

Details

Description

A remarkable Queen Anne period Britannia standard silver porringer, dating to the early 18th century and richly decorated with hand-chased … Read more A remarkable Queen Anne period Britannia standard silver porringer, dating to the early 18th century and richly decorated with hand-chased repoussé and punched ornament. Set with a Queen Anne half-crown dated 1709 and later re-hallmarked in London in 1908, the piece is an evocative example of early English silver with considerable historical character. ㅤ The rounded body is extensively worked by hand with repoussé and punched decoration, incorporating elegant swags, fluting, scrolling foliage and stylised motifs. The richly textured ornament creates considerable depth across the surface while retaining the distinctive proportions associated with early 18th-century porringers. ㅤ A pair of decorative scrolling handles extends symmetrically from either side, giving the vessel its characteristic profile and providing an attractive counterpoint to the elaborate decoration of the body. ㅤ The porringer is raised upon a stepped circular foot, providing a stable foundation and giving the bowl a slightly elevated presentation. A vacant cartouche is incorporated into the decoration and remains free from later engraved initials or presentation inscriptions. ㅤ Of particular historical interest is the period Queen Anne half-crown dated 1709, incorporated into the piece and bearing the inscription “Anna Dei Gratia.” The coin provides a tangible connection with the reign of Queen Anne and complements the period character of the silverwork. ㅤ The piece is described as being fashioned from Britannia standard silver, the higher silver standard introduced in England at the end of the 17th century. Its early decorative treatment and construction are consistent with the Queen Anne period. ㅤ The porringer was subsequently re-hallmarked in London in 1908 and bears the later sponsor's mark of Maurice Freeman. This later mark relates to the dealer or retailer responsible for submitting the piece for hallmarking and should not be interpreted as identifying the original early 18th-century silversmith. ㅤ with a substantial silver weight of 215.1 grams, the porringer has an impressive quality and presence. It remains in very good antique condition, displaying minor surface marks and wear consistent with its considerable age but no notable damage, bruising, holes, splits or repairs. ㅤ The interior remains clean and the silver displays a beautiful bright patina. Combining early English silver craftsmanship, elaborate repoussé decoration and a dated Queen Anne coin, this is a particularly characterful piece for a collection of historic British silver. Original Maker: Unidentified Later Sponsor’s Mark: Maurice Freeman Origin: England Date: Circa 1700s; inset coin dated 1709 Re-Hallmarked: London, 1908 Period: Queen Anne / Early 18th Century Style: Queen Anne Material: Britannia standard silver, silver half-crown coin Techniques: Hand chased, repoussé, punched decoration Weight: 215.1 grams Measurements: Height: 9.1 cm Width: 16 cm including handles Depth: 10.1 cm Rim Diameter: 10.1 cm Base Diameter: 6.4 cm Handle: 7.7 cm See less