The Pepys Standing Cup and cover of 1677, executed in the Charles II style and finely decorated with acanthus leaves . . . the Sterne posset- pot of silver-gilt, bearing the London mark of 1673 and the inscription “The Gift of King Charles the Second to Arch-Bishop Sterne Lord Almoner” ... a standing salt of hour-glass form, from about 1507, that demonstrates perfect symmetry, delicate ornament and exquisite grace, and stands as a perfect creation of the English silversmith . . . these are the treasures sought by the perservering—and -wealthy— collector of old British silver. But one doesn’t have to be a collector to appreciate the beauty and skill of workmanship of these antique pieces of plate. As Arthur Hayden proves in this handbook, the study of old English silver can offer rich rewards even to those who may not be able to ofler $1,000 for an Elizabethan flagon.
Mr. Hayden begins with a thorough examination of the various marks which identify authentic pieces — hall marks, standard marks, date marks, maker's marks, duty and foreign marks. The discussion is not intended to be exhaustive, but rather to caution the beginning collector or student of silver on what to look for in attempting to establish the date and origin of silver. Mr. Hayden then considers English silver and its history, from those pieces which survived the Protestant purges of Henry VIII up to the 19th century. The chapters are arranged typologically according to form and use: included are discussions of Ecclesiastical plate; mazers, standing cups, flagons, tankards, breakers, wine cups and punch bowls; salt-cellars; spoons; possetpots and porringers; candlesticks; tea- and coffee-pots; casters, centrepieces, sugar bowls, cream-pails and cake baskets; and cream- jugs. Two chapters are devoted to Scottish and Irish silver. Jessie McNab Dennis has prepared, for this edition, a new chapter on American silver, especially as it demonstrates evidences of British influence. She has also made extensive textual revisions and selected new photographs. An appendix lists common goldsmiths’ marks.
This book can be confidently recommended to American collectors: it provides a good sense of chronology, explains processes and styles, etc. The treatment embodies much important collecting information, and the author has included anecdotes and historical information associated with the pieces he discusses.
Revised (1969) edition, based on the 2nd (1949) edition which was revised by Cyril G. E. Bunt. New chapter on American Silver. 133 illustrations.