Images(6)

Two-handled cup and cover

Date1775-1776

Marked by Charles Wright (active 1757-1790)

Retailed by Pickett & Rundell (active 1777-1785)

OriginEngland, London

MediumSilver (sterling)

DimensionsOH: 16 5/8"; OW: 12 1/4"; OD (with lid): 6 3/4"; OD (at base): 5 3/8"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1985-36,A&B

DescriptionTwo-handled cup and cover: A stepped circular foot with beaded rim and slender neck supports an urn-shaped body with beaded rim and two foliate ear-shaped handles. Circular conical lid is surmounted by a small beaded urn-shaped finial atop a flat, beaded platform.
Label TextAs the inscription attests, this cup was presented by the Sea Salter Company of Fishermen to Thomas Benson for his1772 role in settling a dispute over oystering grounds in Kent, England. Benson’s heirs apparently returned the cup to the Company following his death.

InscribedEngraved in mixed script and block letters on the obverse of the body in an oval with swags and festoons, surmounted by an oyster shell:

The GIFT of the
Sea Salter Co. of Fifhermen
to Thos. Benson Esq. in consideration
of his Services on the Profecution of their
Oyfter Fifhery Caufe wherein a Verdict was
obtained in their favour against the
Tenants of Lord Bolingbroke on a
Special Issue between them, tried at
Maidstone Assizes before
Lord Mansfield,
the 5th day of August
1772.

Engraved on reverse with the Arms and Crest of Benson impaling another [unidentified], surrounded by the later inscription “Presented by the Family to the Company, In the year of our Lord 1803”

Engraved in script under the foot “Donors R. & I. Knock, I. Wright, E. Foreman, Is. Trevelain & R. Marlborough”

Engraved on the lid with an oyster shell amidst fronds.

MarkingsMarked in relief on underside of base: 1) "CW" in a rectangle [Grimwade 1990 # 428 for Charles Wright]; 2) lion passant; 3) leopard's head crowned; and 4) date letter "U" for 1775-76
ProvenanceVendor: Brand Inglis, London