Magnificent Antique Solid Silver Gilt Charger/Sideboard Dish Baronet Coat of Arms - London 1809

Description and Details 

We are delighted to offer this spectacular Georgian solid silver gilt charger/sideboard dish made in London, 1809.Splendour, grand, dazzling, opulent; with certainly no shortage of choice in describing such an impressionable and ornate piece, this sideboard dish is rather self-explanatory in presenting itself in all its might.  Even upon a quick glance, the size, presence and overall rich gold lustre leaves the eye desiring more. Upon closer inspection, the level of high-relief chasing, intricate stippling and engravings are ever more apparent. The outer wreath consists of wonderful naturalistic motifs of flowers, fruits and foliate scrolls that intertwine. The high relief of the flower petals and fruit makes for a three-dimensional effect, giving a more lifelike appearance as if to invite the onlooker to gaze at this magnificent dish from multiple different angles.  Despite its substantial proportions and profuse embellishments, every decorative element presents an exceptional degree of accuracy and finesse which, even upon close inspection, does not disappoint. Whilst handling and inspecting in person, one can truly appreciate and imagine the painstaking effort, time and cost that would go into fully decorating such an article in an era where candlelight was the norm and no electrical instruments were used. The combined elements of such a grand yet delicately embellished piece make this dish a testament to all the remarkable craftsmanship, skill and quality of a bygone era. The centre of the dish is raised and features a notable hand-engraved coat of arms that completes the overall design with acanthus leaves encompassing the cartouche. The arms as engraved are those of the family of Staunton, Baronets of Cargins. Given the evidence of the date of hallmarking of this dish, it was undoubtedly in the possession of Sir George Thomas Staunton (born 26th May 1781 died 10th August 1859), the 2nd Baronet of Cargins in the County of Galway.Sideboard dishes/chargers were usually commissioned for ornamental and display purposes to adorn the owner's interior with fine silver whilst also serving as a symbolic monument of wealth and splendour.  Today such chargers would make for an excellent centrepiece in an interior deocro or as a highlighting point of contrast in opulent settings. Owing to its substantial size and shape, with some creativity, it could be used to hold some fruits (or the likes) as a centrepiece dish on a dining table. English hallmarks are present on the reverse side of the dish within the chased motifs. Unfortunately, the maker's mark is indistinct.   

*Please note: all images with other items are for display purposes only, this listing is for the title item only. 

Size