Fine Silver George I Sugar Bowl with Lid

Fine Silver George I Sugar Bowl with Lid

This very fine silver box from the early Georgian period (George I/II) was used as a box for sweets, cookies, spices etc. The plain cylindrical bowl is somehow attenuated and is raised on a round, slightly vaulted and profiled foot. The lid is likewise round, vaulted and the rim is with a hollow ring profiled. A profiled, bright handle is on top of the lid. This handle could also serve as a standing foot, when the lid is used as a small bowl.

Boxes for different uses, for instance for the storage of spices or sweet delicacies, were made as early as the 16th century. By the early 18th century, they were regarded as necessary objects in the upper class houses.
Tea was during the 17th century imposed in Europa (since 1680). A range of special vessels for tea drinking had won great popularity. The necessity to store tea in a dark and dry place, in order to keep its aroma, has resulted in the development of the closing tea caddy.

Maker

James Goodwin was son of James Goodwyn of Watford (Hertford). He started his apprenticeship in 1703 by John Cowsey and became a master maker in 1710. He died probably shortly before the 2nd December 1729. At this date, his widow Elizabeth Goodwin hat registered her mark at the assay office – probably she has taken over her husband’s workshop (Grimwade3: 525).

Literature

Grimwade, Ar., 1990, London Goldsmiths 1697-1837. Their marks and lives from the original registers at Goldsmiths’ Hall and other sources, GB: Faber and Faber [Grimwade3]
Jackson, Ch., J., 1921, English Goldsmiths and their marks, London: MacMillan and Co. Limited