Antique George IV Sterling Silver Griffin Crest Soup Ladle, 1829

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A substantial george iv sterling silver soup or punch ladle by clement cheese, fully hallmarked in london for 1829. Executed … Read more A substantial george iv sterling silver soup or punch ladle by clement cheese, fully hallmarked in london for 1829. Executed in the classic fiddle pattern with a traditional rat-tail detail, the ladle is an impressive example of late georgian english table silver. ㅤ the generously proportioned serving bowl is joined to a long, elegantly formed handle terminating in the characteristic broad fiddle-pattern terminal. Fiddle pattern became one of the dominant forms of british silver flatware during the 19th century and remains particularly associated with georgian and victorian dining silver. ㅤ the terminal is finely engraved with a heraldic crest depicting a griffin, the celebrated mythical creature combining the characteristics of the eagle and lion. Within heraldic tradition, the griffin has long been associated with qualities including courage, vigilance and strength. ㅤ the restrained fiddle-pattern form provides an elegant contrast to the detailed heraldic engraving, allowing the crest to become the principal decorative feature while retaining the strong architectural simplicity characteristic of georgian flatware. ㅤ crafted from heavy-gauge sterling silver and weighing 208.6 grams, the ladle has a particularly substantial feel and quality. Comparable london fiddle-pattern soup ladles from 1829 demonstrate the imposing scale and weight typical of high-quality serving pieces of the period. ㅤ the piece remains in very good antique condition, free from damage, significant bruising or repairs, with only minor surface marks consistent with almost two centuries of age. The polished silver retains a beautiful bright patina. ㅤ a handsome and highly usable example of george iv silver, combining substantial georgian craftsmanship, classic fiddle-pattern design and an attractive engraved heraldic crest. Maker: clement cheese origin: london, england date: 1829 period: george iv / georgian style: georgian / fiddle pattern material: sterling silver weight: 208.6 grams measurements: height: 33.4 cm width: 8.4 cm depth: approximately 3 cm bowl: 10.3 × 8.4 cm terminal width: 3.2 cm See less