The Goldsmiths & Silversmiths Co. Ltd. (London, England, 1880-1952)
Christening Set (bowl and spoon), Original Box, c. 1910
sterling silver
(bowl) 2 ½” tall x 4 5/16″ in diameter
(spoon) 6 ½” long
(box) 7 ½” wide x 6 ⅝”deep x 4 ½” high
6.35 troy ounces
Notes: A fine Edwardian sterling silver christening bowl and spoon, made in London, 1910-1911, by The Goldsmiths & Silversmiths Co. Ltd., By Appointment to the King, in a fitted leather case, 6.35 troy ounces.
The bowl is of an early squat baluster form with an everted lip arching from an octagonal vertically paneled bowl standing on a rim foot. The accompanying trefid shaped spoon is also a refined example in a traditional early style with a triple molded terminal and an embossed reeded rattail on the heel.
The fitted, hinged, dark brown, fine grained leatherette covered box still retains its original oval yellowed paper sales sticker that reads “9475/801” corresponding to the scratch weight on the bottom of the bowl.
The bottom of the interior of the box is lined with dark blue velvet and there is a cutout so that the bowl rests within it on an angle thus serving as a display stand when open. The top of the box is lined with a beige colored loose silk lining that is embossed near the bottom center above the Royal coat of arms: “By Appointment to H M The King / The / Goldsmiths & Silversmiths / Company Ltd. / 112 Regent St. London.”
Condition: Antique, Very Good.
For Accuracy: an antique it may show expected light signs of age. The bowl and spoon are in excellent condition with clean clear hallmarks, the bowl having only a very slight dent near the corner edge of one panel; the case is also in fine condition with minimal wear commensurate with age, the clasp on the fitted case occasionally comes loose and requires a delicate snap.
