A search through a cutlery drawer has revealed centuries-old silver destined to excel at auction.
Charles Hanson, owner of Hansons Auctioneers, said: “During a routine home visit I was looking through a cutlery drawer when I spotted a a silver spoon with a difference. It was a rat-tail trefid tablespoon with a stylised handle terminal. I immediately thought it could be early 18th Century but it turned out to be even earlier.
“On checking the marks on the reverse, the crisp, clear detail showed it had been made in London. A leopard’s head signifies this. It had a date code for 1694 making it 17th century and 330 years old. The maker’s marks also enabled me to identify the silversmith, Isaac Liger.
“I was amazed, and the find immediately sent me back in time – and stirred my knowledge of history. It’s remarkable to think this spoon was made in the year Queen Mary died and when King William III was King of England. He came to the throne in 1689 and died in 1702. It was being used 270 years before Queen Victoria died and almost 100 years before the French Revolution. In fact, only 30 years prior, we had seen the restoration of King Charles II after the defeat of Oliver Cromwell.
“Because of the high purity the silver of this period, items like this often got melted down, so to find this spoon in a 21st century cutlery drawer was really quite something. Isaac Liger was a known spoon and silver tongue maker and this example is typical of the period.
“From the houses we clear to the cupboards and kitchens we go through, we never leave any drawer unopened and this was a real find.”
The 17th century silver spoon will be offered in Hansons’ May 2024 Silver and Jewellery auctions, estimate £400-£600.
To arrange a free, no-obligation valuation or to learn more about Hansons’ house clearance services, email [email protected] or call 01283 733988.
