Lot 274
Northern Europe, England, Birmingham, ca. 1934 to 1935 CE; North America, United States, California, San Francisco, ca. 1930 CE. A refined trio of silver sugar casters, each rising like a small tower of domestic ritual, their pierced domes whispering of tea tables, morning light, and the soft clink of porcelain. Elegant in silhouette yet varied in character, the set captures a transatlantic conversation in silver - English restraint paired with American polish. The largest example, a commanding American piece by Shreve & Co., San Francisco, is dated 1930 and bears model number 7022. Its tall, urn-like body rests on a stepped foot, the surface smooth and reflective, interrupted only by the gentle swell of its form and a finely pierced dome. The craftsmanship speaks to Shreve's reputation for restrained luxury, where proportion does the talking and ornament politely steps aside. Size of largest: 2.75" Diameter x 8" H (7 cm x 20.3 cm); silver quality: 92.8% - 93.4%; total weight: 360.1 grams
The medium caster, hallmarked for Birmingham, 1934, carries the distinctive Jubilee mark, anchoring it firmly in the celebratory year of George V's Silver Jubilee. Its rounded shoulder and balanced proportions lend it a quiet confidence, while the pierced lid introduces a subtle decorative rhythm. Though the maker's mark remains elusive, the piece is unmistakably English in its measured elegance.
The smallest, a charming and slightly more ornate example, bears the mark of S. Blanckensee & Son Ltd., Birmingham, with a date letter for 1935. Its more compact form is enriched by delicate pierced decoration to the lid, offering a touch of flourish without excess. It feels almost companionable beside the larger forms - proof that good design need not shout to be heard.
Together, the three form a cohesive yet varied set, unified by their shared function and era while retaining distinct identities. Originally intended for the genteel act of dusting sugar over fruit or pastry, they now stand as sculptural reminders of a slower, more deliberate age of dining. A handsome and versatile grouping, equally suited to use or display, and certain to lend a quiet gleam to any collection of fine silver.
Provenance: private Loveland, Colorado, USA collection
All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.
A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.
We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.
Please note that buyers are responsible for understanding and complying with the import regulations of their destination country. While we carefully prepare and document all shipments, we cannot be held responsible for customs delays, clearance issues, additional duties or taxes, or any seizure of property. In addition, please note that we are unable to ship ancient items back to the original country of origin (Egyptian to Egypt, Greek to Greece, etc.).
PAYMENT EXCEPTION: Unless a known customer of Artemis, payment for all gold / precious metal / gem lots must be made via Bank Wire Transfer or Certified Bank Check/Money Order, no exceptions.
#202209
- Condition: Mid-size and most petite have indecipherable numbers and letters etched into the undersides of their feet. Some indentations to smallest. All have light surface wear with some patina in areas. Otherwise, all are intact and excellent with
Accepted Forms of Payment:
ACH, American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Money Order / Cashiers Check, Personal Check, Visa, Wire Transfer
Shipping
Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense
Artemis Fine Arts
You agree to pay a buyer's premium of 30% and any applicable taxes and shipping.
View full terms and conditions
| From: | To: | Increments: |
|---|---|---|
| $0 | $299 | $25 |
| $300 | $999 | $50 |
| $1,000 | $1,999 | $100 |
| $2,000 | $4,999 | $250 |
| $5,000 | $9,999 | $500 |
| $10,000 | $19,999 | $1,000 |
| $20,000 | $49,999 | $2,500 |
| $50,000 | $99,999 | $5,000 |
| $100,000 | $199,999 | $10,000 |
| $200,000 + | $20,000 |