William Hunter

An exceptional, fine and impressive antique Victorian English sterling silver claret jug, influenced by the Aesthetic Movement; an addition to our diverse silverware collection. This exceptional antique Victorian sterling silver claret jug has a circular rounded form onto a circular plateaued foot. The upper portion of the jug is encompassed with bands of bright cut engraved evolute scroll, vertical pale and oval motifs accented with a simplified leaf garland and delicate scrolling pattern to the rim, all influenced by the Aesthetic Movement. The lower portion of the body is embellished with large fan designs segmented with tri-lobed motifs; each large module incorporates a horizontal pale, matte pattern. The Victorian silver claret jug is fitted with a hinged hallmarked cover ornamented with a bright cut engraved leaf wreath design encompassing a contemporary crest of a stag's head erased. The cover is surmounted with a cast and applied leaf decorated thumbpiece, reflecting the shape of the fan designs to the body. This impressive jug is fitted with an exceptional embossed elongated S scroll handle featuring a bi-lobed ribbed formation and embellished with bright cut engraved oval motifs to either side, in addition to a scalloped, scrolling lower terminal. Either side of the lip is ornamented with a bright cut engraved simplified leaf design, in addition to a plain applied moulded border to the rim. The plateaued foot is embellished with further bright cut engraved garland designs, reflecting the ornamentation of the body and cover. The interior surface of the cover retains the original gilding. The underside of the foot bears the retailer's mark 'J. Mayer, Silversmith, Liverpool'. Condition This antique Victorian silver claret jug is an exceptional gauge of silver, exceptional quality and in exceptional presentation condition. The bright cut engraved decoration is very crisp. The jug has been professionally cleaned and is ready for use. Full hallmarks struck to the underside of the base and part hallmarks to the cover are very clear. Dimensions Length from back of handle to lip 13.4 cm / 5.3" Width 11.6 cm / 4.6" Height 30.3 cm / 11.9" Weight 21.5 troy ounces / 668g Maker: William Hunter...