Images(8)

Two-handled covered cup

Date1732-1733

Marked by Peter Archambo I (fl. 1721 - 1759)

OriginEngland, London

MediumSilver (Sterling)

DimensionsOH: 13"; OW: 11 3/8"; diam: 7 1/8"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1978-212,A&B

DescriptionTwo-handled covered cup of inverted bell form on spreading circular foot; body with applied with strapwork incorporating portrait medallions and with molded midband; two leaf-capped double scroll handles; and domed cover similarly applied with strapwork, with baluster finial
Label TextIn 1720 when the sterling standard was re-introduced in England, a duty or tax was collected on silver when it was assayed. Numerous examples survive documenting the practice of duty-dodging. Because the tax was based on weight, a smaller object was sent for assay so that the silversmith could pay a lower fee. The marks from that object would then be inserted into a larger, heavier item. The heavy solder inside the foot of this cup and the lack of marks on its lid are clues it is a duty-dodger. An X-ray confirms that a disk of hallmarked silver was inserted in its base.
InscribedEngraved on one side with the arms and on the other with the crest of Sir Thomas Brooke of Norton Priory, 3rd Baronet of Norton Priory, Co. Chester, who was Governor of Chester Castle during the greater part of the reign of Queen Ann. He married, on the 12th of July, 1688, Grace, daughter of Roger Wilbraham of Townsend, Mr. Nantwitch, and he died in 1739 (identification by vendor).
MarkingsMarked in relief on silver disk soldered to body at juncture to foot: 1) sponsor's mark "PA" with crown above within conforming reserve [Grimwade 1990 # 2127]; 2) leopard's head crowned; 3) lion passant; and 4) date letter “R” for 1732-33
ProvenanceVendor: Brand Inglis, London

Exhibition(s)