Description

Matched Pair Silver Ducks

From our Decanter collection, we are pleased to offer this Silver and Glass Matched Pair of Duck Decanters. The Decanters of novelty form shaped as two ducks with Sterling Silver heads hinged just below the eyes. The bodies with beautifully shaped glass work having their wings formed from the blown glass with a dual purpose to be used as handles for carrying and pouring. Both Decanters are hallmarked sterling Silver with one by Chester silversmiths Saunders & Shepherd dated 1901 and the other is by Birmingham silversmiths Hukin & Heath dated 1912. The matched pair are an excellent example from the early 20th century Art Nouveau period by two of the leading Silversmiths in England at the time.

Hukin and Heath were important Silversmiths and electroplaters of Birmingham (1855-1953). Established by Jonathan Wilson Hukin and John Thomas Heath. They registered Birmingham marks in 1875 and London marks in 1879. The firm began working in conjunction with Dr. Christopher Dresser in 1877 and some of their most notable designs have Dresser influence.

Saunders and Shepherd later known as Cornelius Desormeaux Saunders and James Francis Hollings (C.D.S. & J.F.H.), were a renowned firm of manufacturing jewellers and silver-making company based in London and Chester, UK. The firm operated from 1869 until 1931 and was particularly famous for its intricate designs and quality craftsmanship. Saunders and Shepherd produced a wide range of luxury silver items, including tea caddies, tableware, and decorative objects. The company was well-known for incorporating different materials into their silverware, such as tortoiseshell and enamel. Their pieces often bore elaborate engravings, embossing, and chasing, and were made using a combination of traditional and modern techniques. The silver hallmarks on their pieces, including those on this petit Silver & Tortoiseshell tea caddy, provide insight into the date, origin, and quality of the silver used in their production. Over the years the firm has had various associations with other companies such as Gay Freres, Eterna, Porsche Design and Fope. Saunders and Shepherd’s work continues to be highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts of antique silverware. At present, the company is situated in the renowned Birmingham jewellery quarter, where it specialises in crafting watch cases and jewellery.

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.

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.

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