Scale plate

Date1687-1710

Artist/Maker Richard Webb

MediumPewter

DimensionsDiam: 15 1/8"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1947-222

DescriptionScale plate is a flat circular disc of pewter with narrow raised multiply-molded rim on face and single beaded molded edge on underside. "I,"/"I" "W" in block lettered within separate serrated rectangles in triangular arrangement on face near rim opposite pseudo-hallmarks.
Label TextFlat plates of this size with a molded edge, such as this and CWF accession 1984-139, are sometimes described as scale plates. It is more likely that they are either cake plates or some other type of specialized stand or dish for the presentation and service of food. Examples of this date with multiple-reeded edging are rare.
InscribedOwners' initials "I/IW" within separate serrated rectangles on face opposite pseudo hallmarks.
MarkingsTouch mark a seated sovereign with a palm frond to either side and "RICHARD" above and "WEBB" below within curved reserves on underside (London Touch Plate II, 458; Cotterell 5007). Secondary mark a rose with crown above with a palm frond to either side and "LONDON" below within a curved reserve on underside (Cotterell 5007). Pseudo hallmarks (1) "RW" with pellets above and below within a shaped shield, (2) leopard's head crowned within a shaped shield, (3) black letter "C" with two pellets above and one below within a shaped shield, and lion passant within a rounded rectangle, on face near rim (Cotterell 5007).
ProvenanceVendor: F.H. Foxall, Ludlow, Shropshire (acquired at auction in Brighton, Sussex).