Description

William Comyns Sterling Silver Set

From our Accessories collection, we are pleased to offer this Silver & Tortoiseshell Set. The matched set comprises of a Silver and Tortoiseshell Inkwell and String box both beautifully mounted with ribbon-like silver work around a tortoiseshell body complete with silver splayed pedestal feet. The inkwell is fitted with a rounded hinged lid featuring a crowned monogram revealing the ceramic inkwell within. The String box surmounted with a silver finial, opens around the centre revealing the cup shape ready to be fitted with a ball of string. Both objects are hallmarked by William Comyns with the inkwell dating to 1890 retailed by Child & Child, Seville Street London S.W. and the string box dating to 1894 retailed by Asprey, New Bond St. London.

Measurements Inkwell 8.5cm High x 8cm Wide (3.35 x 3.15 Inches) String Box 12.5cm High x 8cm Wide (4.92 x 3.15 Inches)

Tortoiseshell is a type of decorative material made from the shells of certain species of sea turtles. These ornamental shells are composed of keratin, a dense, glossy substance that can be shaped and cut into a variety of decorative items and designs. A range of decorative objects, such as combs, brush handles, and other small items, have been made from Tortoiseshell for centuries. Tea Caddies were often made from tortoiseshell, because of its strength, durability, and ability to be polished to a high shine. These decorative items are described as “Tortoiseshell” despite the fact that they are made from the shells of sea turtles; the term was often used historically to describe this material.

Sterling Silver is an alloy composed by weight of 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals, usually copper. The sterling silver standard has a minimum millesimal fineness (parts per thousand) of 925.

William Comyns was a London based silversmith (1858 -1930). The firm was founded by William Comyns who bought Robert Tagg in 1858. He entered his first mark from the original Robert Tagg premises in Soho, London. As the business expanded in 1885 they became William Comyns & Son when his two sons Charles and Richard joined the business. From the 1880s they produced large numbers of silver decorative items which were retailed through leading London retailers, such as Henry Lewis and Howell & James. William Comyns died in 1916, and his son Charles died in 1925 whilst at a sale at Christie’s. They registered as a limited company in 1930 as William Comyns & Sons Ltd with the remaining son, Richard, registered as the permanent governing director. When Richard died in 1953, the company was bought by Bernard Copping. They are now one of the few remaining manufacturing silversmiths in London with premises in London WC2.

Asprey was established in 1781 by William Asprey, and was originally set up to be a silk printing business, but soon became a luxury emporium. Located in central London, Asprey advertised ‘articles of exclusive design and high quality, whether for personal adornment or personal accompaniment and to endow with richness and beauty the table and homes of people of refinement and discernment.’ As the business grew the company acquired several manufacturing facilities and hired silversmiths, goldsmiths, jewelers and watchmakers including Ernest Betjeman. In 1859 Asprey bought Edwards, a Royal Warrant holder and award winning dressing case maker. In 1862 Asprey was granted its first Royal Warrant by Queen Victoria and the company enjoyed a long relationship with various members of the British Royal Family.

With every purchase from Mark Goodger Antiques, you will receive our latest catalogue, a Certificate of Authenticity, detailed care instructions for your chosen piece and an independent invoice (for insurance purposes) will be enclosed. As well as being protected by a no-hassle, money-back policy, your piece will be entirely insured during the shipping process to ensure the safety of your item.

If you are purchasing Tortoiseshell or Ivory pieces and are outside the UK you must have a CITES certificate in order to import the item into your country. We can obtain these on your behalf at a cost of £50 and these can take up to 30 working days to arrive at our office. Due to the strict exporting rules of these pieces, they may also come with further shipping costs. Please ensure you contact us prior to purchase for a quote.

Additional information