A PAIR OF EDWARD VII/GEORGE V SILVER-GILT COPIES OF THE BOSTON CUPS LONDON, 1909 AND 1910, MAKER'S MARK OF CRICHTON BROS.

Details

A PAIR OF EDWARD VII/GEORGE V SILVER-GILT COPIES OF THE BOSTON CUPS LONDON, 1909 AND 1910, MAKER'S MARK OF CRICHTON BROS.

Each of circular form, the spreading circular foot elaborately repousse and chased with a band of fruit and classical masks within strapwork between bands of ovals, the stem with similar strapwork decoration enclosing a fluted knop with stylized fruit, all on a matted ground, the interior sides engraved with similar strapwork and foliage enclosing a raised central circular plaque with a bearded man within scroll and circle and scalloped bands, marked on bodies, the bases stamped CRICHTON BROS, NEW YORK LONDON--6 3/4in. (17.1cm.) diam.
(38 oz. 10 dwt.) (2)

Lot Essay

Boston cups were presented to the Company of Boston, Lincolnshire, in 1582 by Christopher Audley, who appears to have paid 21 for them. After the Reform Act, the Corporation sold them at auction in 1837 for 13 guineas; the descendants of the purchasers sold them at Christie's in 1906 where they sold for 2900.