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Sterling Silver Sugar Sifter Spoon Hester Bateman London 1776 ANTIQUE

Sterling Silver Sugar Sifter Spoon Hester Bateman London 1776 ANTIQUE

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Sterling Silver Sugar Sifter Spoon Hester Bateman London 1776 ANTIQUE

A beautifully elegant sugar sifter spoon from the reign of King George III. Made in London by Hester Bateman (1708-1794). She was one of the few female silversmiths from the Georgian period that we know by name. From the late 1600 to the 1850's it appears that at least 63 women were working in this highly skilled profession. But as their work was not taken seriously at the time, their names have largely been forgotten. 

Hester left an important legacy as a skilled silversmith, businesswoman and entrepreneur. When her husband John died in 1760 of tuberculosis, she become the legal owner of his tools which enabled her to take over the family business. In a time when women were not allowed to have maker's marks using their own initials she managed to registered 'HB" at Goldsmith's Hall in 1761.

Hester Bateman's business become known for their high quality and ornamental silverware. The workshop utilised the latest technology in order to cut production costs and this way managed to compete in a fast changing world. 

This sugar sifter spoon showcases the tradition of Hester's work of simple and elegant designs. Fitted with a lovely curved handle and small scroll detail at the top. The shell shaped bowl is decorated on both sides with flutes and swirls. Extremely fine piercing completes this lovely pattern design that is named Onslow (likely after the Speaker of the House of Commons, George Onslow, 1731-1814). The sugar sifter is made of sterling silver, with visible manufacturer's initials 'HB', lion passant mark, London town hallmark and date mark letter 'A'.  The condition is excellent, a few marks are visible where the handle is joined with the bowl. 

Product summary

  • Manufacturer: Hester Bateman
  • Place Of Origin: London, England
  • Material: Sterling silver
  • Manufacturer Marks & Inscriptions: Yes
  • Period: 18th Century
  • Provenance: No
  • Item Size: Length 143mm (5.5 inches) x Width 48mm (2 inches) Widest Point  approx.

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