Arts Council England has received notifications of sale for the following items which have previously been exempted from capital taxation. Please note that the price given is intended as a rough guide only, and does not constitute an offer to sell at this price. The practice of the auction houses is usually to pitch this at their high auction estimate or, sometimes, even higher.
1. Jan Havicksz. Steen
An interior with the artist eating oysters
signed and dated 'Jan Steen./1660' (lower left)
oil on canvas
41in. x 52in.
in a reeded frame with shells and acanthus
Provenance:
Seger Tiereas; The Hague, 4 July 1743
Gerard Hoet, The Hague, from whom acquired by Willem Lormier; The Hague, 4 July 1763, lot 250, 950 fl. to Capt. Baillie (for Sir James Lowther, later 1st Earl of Lonsdale)
At Lowther Castle, 1802
Exhibited:
London, British Institution, 1818, no.118
London, Christie's and Manchester, Whitworth Art Gallery, Treasures of the North, 2000, no.32
Literature:
Waagen, p.262, 'approaches Pieter de Hooge in transparency'
C. Hofstede de Groot, A Catalogue Raisonne, etc., London, 1908, I, p.233, no.856, .. 'one of the finest works of Steen'
K. Braun, Meesters der Schilderkunst, Jan Steen, Rotterdam, 1990, no.114
Sale: Christie's, King Street, Old Master and British Paintings, 2nd July 2013
Guide Price: £10,000,000
2. An Extremely Rare Cloisonné Enamel Baluster Vase and Cover, Qianlong four-character mark within a double-square and of the period (1736-1795)
The vessel is modelled with a bulbous mid-section below a tall cylindrical neck that rises to a flaring mouth rim, all supported on a splayed foot. The handles on each side of the vase are shaped in the form of monster masks suspending loose rings. The exterior of the mid-section is elaborately decorated with a band of archaistic dragons, above a colourful band of stylised lotus scrolls. There is a band of upright leaves encircling the neck, set between floral scrolls. The foot is similarly decorated with floral scrolls, set on a tapered base. The cover is enamelled with archaistic designs surmounted by an openwork finial depicting scrolling clouds.
18in. (45.7cm.) high
Sale: Christie's, King Street, Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art, 14 May 2013
Guide Price: £80,000
3. Claude Joseph Vernet
Avignon 1714 - 1789 Paris
A View of Avignon from the right bank of the Rhone near Villeneuve
Signed lower left:Joseph Vernet fe/1757
Oil on Canvas
37 1/2 x 90 1/2 in.
PROVENANCE
Commissioned by M. Peilhon, Secretaire du Roi, in 1751 from the artist
His (deceased) sale Paris, Remy, 16th May 1763, lot 82
Randon de Boisset, Receveur general des Finances, his (deceased) sale, Paris, Remy, 1777, lot 202
Mr Arbert, Joallier de la Couronne, his (deceased) sale, Paris, 2nd March 1786, lot 58
Anonymous sale, Paris, 17th March, 1789, lot 88
M. Marin, his deceased sale, Paris, Lebrun Saubert, 22 March 1790, lot 339
Now in a British private collection
Sale: Sotheby's London, Old Master Evening sale, July 3rd 2013
Guide Price: £5,000,000
4.THE BENSON COLLECTION OF 40 SPOONS
Sale: Christie's Centuries of Style Sale, King Street, London, 4th June 2013
1.
A ROMAN SILVER SPOON
CIRCA 350 A.D.
The fluted elongated bowl, the rat-tail terminating in a circular knop, engraved on each side with a cross, one with traces of niello, with facetted tapering handle
8 7/8 in. (22.7 cm.) long
1 oz. 9 dwt. (46 gr.)
Provenance
Harvey Clarke, Esq., of Brook House, Ardingly, Sussex, by circa 1914 and by descent to
Col. Ralph Clarke, T.D., D.L., M.P.; Christie's, London, 13 July 1953, lot 93, part (£60 to How).
The Benson Collection.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 18-19, no. 1.
Estimate
£1,500-2,500
2.
A ROMAN SILVER SPOON
CIRCA 350 A.D.
The circular bowl with rat-tail, with tapering facetted handle
5 5/8 in. (14.3 cm.) long
2 dwt. (0.32 gr.)
Provenance
Excavated in London, circa 1950 and presented to Mrs. How.
The Benson Collection by 1952.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1952, vol. 1, p. 364, pl. 7.
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 20-21, no. 2.
Estimate
£1,000-1,500
3.
AN ANGLO-SAXON SPOON
7TH-11TH CENTURY
The circular bowl with five pierced holes, with flattened tapering ferrule and tubular handle with loop finial
6 5/8 in. (17 cm.) long
Provenance
The Benson Collection by 1952.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1952, vol. 1, p. 366, pl. 8.
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 22-24, no. 3.
Estimate
£700-1,000
4.
A MEDIEVAL SILVER-GILT WARWICK SPOON
CIRCA 1150-1350
The slightly ovoid bowl with twisted tubular handle
3 3/4 in. (9.6 cm.) long
11 dwt. (17 gr.)
Provenance
By tradition excavated at Warwick.
Colonel R. F. Ratcliff (c.1867-1943).
Colonel R. F. Ratcliff, C.M.G., deceased, late of Newton Park,
Burton-on-Trent; Christie's, London, 10 June 1943, lot 186, part (£9 to How).
The Benson Collection.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1952, vol. 1, p. 56, pl. 11.
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 25-26, no. 4.
Estimate
£1,000-1,500
5.
A MEDIEVAL SILVER ACORN-KNOP SPOON
PROBABLY LINCOLN, CIRCA 12TH-13TH CENTURY
The circular bowl with tapering facetted handle, the silver-gilt finial cast as an acorn on a stepped pediment
5 5/8 in. (14.3 cm.) long
12 dwt. (19 gr.)
Provenance
By tradition excavated at Bailgate, Lincoln circa 1920.
Sold to H. Jervis of Beckingham, Doncaster who was able to remove the incrustations to reveal the spoon in its current form.
The Benson Collection by 1952.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1952, vol. II, p. 394, pl. 10.
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 27-28, no. 5.
Estimate
£8,000-12,000
6.
AN EDWARD II SILVER ACORN-KNOP SPOON
CIRCA 1300-1325
The fig-shaped bowl with tapering facetted handle, terminating in a finial cast as an acorn
5 3/4 in. (14.5 cm.)
14 dwt. (21 gr.)
Provenance
By tradition found as part of a hoard of spoons in the River Rother, near New Romney, Kent.
The Benson Collection by 1952.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1952, vol. I, p. 152, pl. 2.
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 29-31, no. 6.
Estimate
£6,000-8,000
7.
AN EDWARD II SILVER ACORN-KNOP SPOON
CIRCA 1300-1325
The fig-shaped bowl with tapering facetted handle, terminating in a finial cast as an acorn
5 3/8 in. (13.5 cm.) long
11 dwt. (17 gr.)
Provenance
The Benson Collection by 1952.
Exhibited
Toronto, The Royal Ontario Museum, Seven Centuries of English Domestic Silver, January to March 1958, no. A.2 (lent by Miss J. P. Benson).
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1952, vol. I, p. 104, pl. 14.
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 32-33, no. 7.
Estimate
£6,000-8,000
8.
AN EDWARD III SILVER DIAMOND-POINT SPOON
CIRCA 1350
The fig-shaped bowl with facetted handle, terminating in a diamond-point finial, marked in bowlwith 'Indian' leopard's head
6 in. (15.4 cm.)
13 dwt. (20 gr.)
Provenance
The Benson Collection by 1952.
Exhibited
Toronto, The Royal Ontario Museum, Seven Centuries of English Domestic Silver, January to March 1958, no. A.3 (lent by Miss J. P. Benson).
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1952, vol. I, p. 100, pl. 12.
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 34-35, no. 8.
Estimate
£30,000-50,000
9.
A HENRY IV SILVER MINIATURE DIAMOND-POINT SPOON
CIRCA 1400
The fig-shaped bowl with facetted handle, terminating in a diamond-point finial, the back of the bowl engraved with initials
3 3/8 in. (8.5 cm.)
3 dwt. (6 gr.)
Provenance
The Benson Collection by 1952.
Exhibited
Toronto, The Royal Ontario Museum, Seven Centuries of English Domestic Silver, January to March 1958, no. A.5 (lent by Miss J. P.Benson).
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate , London, 1952, vol. I, p. 162, pl. I.
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 36-37, no. 9.
Estimate
£5,000-8,000
10.
A HENRY IV SILVER RINGED ACORN-KNOP SPOON
CIRCA 1400
The fig-shaped bowl with slightly tapering facetted handle, terminating in a cast acorn finial with wreath or spiral-fluted ring below, the back of the bowl engraved with initials
6 1/4 in. (15.8 cm.) long
1 oz (30 gr.)
Provenance
Dr. W. Harris; Christie's, London, 19 June 1957, lot 103, (£270 to How).
The Benson Collection.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1952, vol. I, p. 154, pl. 3.
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 38-39, no. 10.
Estimate
£8,000-12,000
11.
A HENRY IV SILVER MINIATURE DIAMOND-POINT SPOON
CIRCA 1400
The fig-shaped bowl with facetted handle, terminating in a diamond-point finial, the back of the bowl with traces of initials
2 3/8 in. (6.1 cm.) long
3 dwt. (5 gr.)
Provenance
The Benson Collection, probably acquired after 1957.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 40-41, no. 11.
Estimate
£5,000-8,000
12.
A HENRY IV SILVER DIAMOND-POINT SPOON
CIRCA 1400
The fig-shaped bowl with facetted handle, terminating in a diamond-point finial, marked in bowlwith 'Syrian' leopard's head
6 1/2 in. (16.6 cm.) long
16 dwt. (25 gr.)
Provenance
The Benson Collection by 1952.
Exhibited
Toronto, The Royal Ontario Museum, Seven Centuries of English Domestic Silver, January to March 1958, no. A.4 (lent by Miss J. P. Benson).
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1952, vol. I, p. 9, no. 1 and p. 96, pl. 10.
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 42-43, no. 12.
Estimate
£20,000-30,000
13.
A HENRY VI SILVER MAIDENHEAD SPOON
MAKER'S MARK A CINQUEFOIL, CIRCA 1450
The fig-shaped bowl with a slightly tapering facetted handle, terminating in a cast maidenhead finial, the bowl later engraved with initials 'M' over 'E*I', marked in bowl
6 in. (15.4 cm.) long
19 dwt. (29 gr.)
Provenance
The Benson Collection by 1952.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1952, vol. II, p. 180, pl. I.
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 44-46, no. 13.
Estimate
£7,000-10,000
14.
THE BENSON WODEWOSE
A HENRY VI SILVER WODEWOSE SPOON
PERHAPS COGGESHALL, ESSEX, CIRCA 1440
The fig-shaped bowl with tapering facetted handle, terminating in a cast and gilt figure of a wild man, holding a club and supported on a pediment, marked in bowl with 'Arabian' leopard's head
7 5/8 in. (19.5 cm.) long
1 oz. 7 dwt. (41 gr.)
Provenance
Sir Arthur Evans (1851-1941), archeologist, excavator of the Palace of Knossos
The Sir Arthur Evans Collection; Sotheby's, London, 30 May 1935, lot 99 (£215).
The Benson Collection by 1952.
Exhibited
Toronto, The Royal Ontario Museum, Seven Centuries of English Domestic Silver, January to March 1958, no. A.6 (lent by Miss J. P. Benson).
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
'The Sale Room, Total of £16,500 for Old Silver', The Times, Friday, 13 May 1935, p. 11, column E.
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1952, vol. I, p. 108, pl. 16.
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 47-50, no. 14.
Catalogue Notes
The suggestion of Coggeshall as the origin for this group of spoons is based on a record at the Worshipful Company of Goldsmiths which record a group of twelve such spoons. There are also will references to woodwose spoons so this is by no means certain. The spoons found at Coggeshall were found to be substandard and so it would be doubtful that the Company would have allowed them to be sold.
Estimate
£40,000-60,000
15.
AN EDWARD IV SILVER PELLETED-BALL SPOON
CIRCA 1435-1440
The fig-shaped bowl with slightly tapering facetted handle, terminating in a pelleted-ball shaped finial, marked in bowl with 'Arabian' leopard's head
6 5/8 in. (16.8 cm.) long
17 dwt. (26 gr.)
Provenance
The Benson Collection, probably acquired after 1957.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 51-52, no. 15
Estimate
£10,000-15,000
16.
AN EDWARD III SILVER DIAMOND-POINT SPOON
CIRCA 1350
The fig-shaped bowl with facetted handle, terminating in a diamond-point finial, marked in bowlwith 'Indian' leopard's head
6 1/4 in. (16 cm.) long
16 dwt. (26 gr.)
Provenance
The Benson Collection by 1952.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1952, vol. I, p. 100, pl. 12.
Literature
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 53-54, no. 16.
Estimate
£30,000-50,000
17.
THE BENSON APOSTLE SPOONS
A SET OF SIX EDWARD IV PARCEL-GILT SILVER APOSTLE SPOONS
THE SET WILL BE OFFERED AS A SINGLE LOT, DESCRIBED AS LOT 324, SUBJECT TO A RESERVE PRICE. IF THIS PRICE IS NOT REACHED, THE SET WILL BE OFFERED AS SEPARATE LOTS 324A-F.
MAKER'S MARK A BIFURCATED CINQUEFOIL IN A DOTTED CIRCA, CIRCA 1475
Each with fig-shaped bowl, the slightly tapering facetted handles terminating in a cast silver-gilt apostle, comprising:
a.) St. Paul, cast looking slightly to the right and holding the long sword in his left hand, his right hand raised in blessing, nimbus lacking, marked in bowl
7 5/8 in. (19.2 cm.) long
2 oz. (62 gr.)
b.) An Apostle lacking his attribute, cast with both arms held in front of him, the nimbus engraved with rays, marked in bowl
7 3/8 in. (18.9 cm.) long
2 oz. (62 gr.)
c.) An Apostle lacking his attribute, from the same casting as b.), cast with both arms held in front of him, the nimbus lacking, marked in bowl
7 3/8 in. (18.8 cm.) long
1 oz. 19 dwt. (61 gr.)
d.) An Apostle, with part of an attribute, perhaps the key of St. Peter, cast with part of his robe draped over his arm, both arms held in front of him, the nimbus engraved with rays, marked in bowl
7 1/4 in. (19 cm.) long
2 oz. 1 dwt. (63 gr.)
e.) An Apostle, with part of an attribute, perhaps the flaying knife of St. Bartholomew, from the same casting as d.), cast with part of his robe draped over his arm, both arms held in front of him, the nimbus lacking, marked in bowl
7 3/8 in. (18.9 cm.) long
1 oz. 19 dwt. (60 gr.)
f.) An Apostle lacking his attribute, from the same casting as a.), cast looking slightly to the right, his right hand raised in blessing, nimbus lacking, marked in bowl
7 1/4 in. (19 cm.) long
2 oz. 1 dwt. (64 gr.)
12 oz. (374 gr.)
Provenance
The Benson Collection by 1952.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1952, vol. II, pp. 66-69, pl. 11 and 12.
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 55-70, nos. 17-22.
Estimate
£150,000-250,000
18.
AN EDWARD IV SILVER WRYTHEN-KNOP SPOON
LONDON, 1481 OR 1482, MAKER'S MARK A WHEEL
The fig-shaped bowl with facetted slightly tapering handle, terminating in a cast wrythen knop, the handle later stamped 'Breadalbane', marked in the bowl with leopard's head, the back of the handle with maker's mark and date letter
6 5/8 in. (16.8 cm.) long
1 oz. 2 dwt. (35 gr.)
Provenance
Gavin, 1st Marquess of Breadalbane (1851-1922).
Gavin, 1st Marquess of Breadalbane; Christie's, London, 12 May 1926, lot 48.
The Benson Collection by 1952.
Exhibited
Toronto, The Royal Ontario Museum, Seven Centuries of English Domestic Silver, January to March 1958, no. A.10 (lent by Miss J. P. Benson).
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Possibly Charles G. Rupert, Apostle Spoons , Oxford, 1929, pl.III.
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1952, vol. I, p. 184, pl. 2.
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 71-73, no. 23.
Estimate
£10,000-15,000
19.
A HENRY VII SILVER APOSTLE SPOON
MAKER'S MARK A FIVE POINTED MULLET OR A LETTER H, CIRCA 1785
The fig-shaped bowl with facetted slightly tapering handle, terminating in a finial cast as St. Andrew holding a saltire Cross in his left hand, the nimbus engraved with rays, marked in bowlwith five pointed mullet, the back of the handle stamped 'h'
7 1/8 in. (18.2 cm.) long
1 oz. 6 dwt. (41 gr.)
Provenance
The Benson Collection by 1952.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1952, vol. II, p. 60, pl. 7.
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 74-76, no. 24.
Catalogue Notes
A bowl of a spoon with the same mark in the bowl is illustrated in Charles G. Rupert, ApostleSpoons, Oxford, 1929, pl. IV.
Estimate
£6,000-8,000
20.
A HENRY VII SILVER HEXAGONAL-KNOP SPOON
CIRCA 1490
The fig-shaped bowl with facetted slightly tapering handle, terminating in a cast hexagonal finial with reeded pediment, the back of the bowl engraved with initials
4 3/8 in. (11.1 cm.) long
9 dwt. (14 gr.)
Provenance
The Benson Collection by 1952.
Exhibited
Toronto, The Royal Ontario Museum, Seven Centuries of English Domestic Silver, January to March 1958, no. A.11 (lent by Miss J. P. Benson).
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1952, vol. I, p. 156, pl. 4
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 77-78, no. 25.
Estimate
£4,000-6,000
21.
A HENRY VII SILVER APOSTLE SPOON
LONDON, 1490, MAKER'S MARK SLIGHTLY OVERSTRIKING THE DATE LETTER, TRADITIONALLY DESCRIBED AS A GOTHIC L
The fig-shaped bowl with facetted slightly tapering handle, terminating in a finial cast as St James the Less, holding in his left hand the fullers bat, supported on a waisted and reeded pediment, the circular nimbus engraved with rays, marked in the bowl with leopard's head, the back of the handle with date letter and maker's mark
7 1/8 in. (18.2 cm.) long
1 oz. 9 dwt. (45 gr.)
Provenance
The Benson Collection, probably acquired after 1957.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 79-81, no. 26.
Catalogue Notes
This apostle spoon is originally from a set which is believed to be the earliest recorded apostle spoons bearing the full London hallmarks.
Estimate
£15,000-25,000
22.
A HENRY VII SILVER VIRGIN AND HEART SPOON
LONDON, CIRCA 1490, MAKER'S MARK A WHEEL
The fig-shaped bowl with a tapering facetted handle, terminating in a cast Virgin and Heart finial, the back of the bowl later engraved with a coat-of-arms with a mullet for difference, marked in the bowl with leopard's, the back of the handle marked with maker's mark
6 7/8 in. (17.4 cm.) long
1 oz. 2 dwt. (35 gr.)
Provenance
J. H. Walker.
The J. H. Walker Collection; Sotheby's, London, 1 and 2 July 1954 (£640 to How).
The Benson Collection, probably acquired after 1957.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 82-84, no. 27.
Catalogue Notes
Other spoons similarly engraved with a later coat-of-arms include a slip top by Thomas Brothwell, London, 1627 (Woolley and Wallis, 28 January 2004, lot 48); a puritan by Jeremy Johnson, London, circa 1650 (Phillips, London, 15 October 2001, lot 407) and a slip top by Daniel Cary, London, 1639 (Lawrences, Crewkerne, 5 July 2011, lot 131 and previously from the Biggs Collection, Christie's, London, 20 September 1978, lot 71).
Estimate
£15,000-25,000
23.
A HENRY VII SILVER HEXAGONAL-KNOP SPOON
LONDON, 1494, MAKER'S MARK VV CONJOINED
The fig-shaped bowl with facetted tapering handle, terminating in hexagonal finial, marked with leopard's head in bowl and with maker's mark and date letter on back of handle
6 3/8 in. (16.2 cm.) long
1 oz. 10 dwt. (47 gr.)
Provenance
Captain Richard William Gillespie.
A Gentleman [Capt. R. W. Gillespie]; Christie's, London, 6 April 1911, lot 121 (£430 to Crichton).
with Crichton Brothers from 1911.
Henry Newton Veitch (d.1925), 20 Coleherne Court, London.
The Benson Collection by 1952.
Exhibited
Toronto, The Royal Ontario Museum, Seven Centuries of English Domestic Silver, January to March 1958, no. A.12 (lent by Miss J. P. Benson).
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
H. N. Veitch, Catalogue, 31 May 1922, catalogue number 11.
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate , London, 1952, vol. I, p. 92, pl. 8.
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 85-86, no. 28.
Estimate
£15,000-25,000
24.
A HENRY VII SILVER 'BW' FINIAL SPOON
LONDON, 1494, MAKER'S MARK A LEAF
The fig-shaped bowl with facetted tapering stem, terminating in a fan shaped finial, the front cast with the initial 'B', the back with the initials 'W', each on a matted ground, with a stepped pediment, the front of the handle engraved with a leaf mark, marked in the bowl with leopard's head, the back of the handle marked with maker's mark and date letter
6 1/4 in. (16.5 cm.) long
1 oz. 6 dwt. (41 gr.)
Provenance
Sydney Ernest Kennedy, by 1901.
S. E. Kennedy, Christie's, London, 18 March 1918.
Harvey Clarke collection, by circa 1914 and by descent to
Col. Ralph Clarke, T.D., D.L., M.P.; Christie's, London, 13 July 1953, lot 92 part (£300 to How).
The Cookson Collection by 1957.
The Benson Collection, acquired after 1957.
Exhibited
London, The Burlington Fine Arts Club, Exhibition of a Collection of Silversmiths' Work of European Origin, 1901, case E, no. 9.
Toronto, The Royal Ontario Museum, Seven Centuries of English Domestic Silver, January to March 1958, no. A.13 (lent by an anonymous English owner).
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
J. S. Gardner, ed., Exhibition of a Collection of Silversmiths' Work of European Origin, London, 1901, p. 44, no. 9.
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate , London, 1957, vol. III, p. 122, pl. 11.
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 87-89, no. 29.
Estimate
£30,000-50,000
25.
A HENRY VII SILVER DIAMOND-POINT SPOON
LONDON, 1498, MAKER'S MARK AN ARROWHEAD
The fig-shaped bowl with facetted tapering handle, terminating in a diamond finial, the bowl later stamped with initials 'KD', marked in bowl with leopard's head, the back of the handle marked with maker's mark and date letter
5 7/8 in. (15 cm.) long
15 dwt. (24 gr.)
Provenance
The Benson Collection by 1952.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1952, vol. I, p. 9, no. 2 and p. 96, pl. 10.
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 90-91, no. 30.
Estimate
£12,000-18,000
26.
A HENRY VII SILVER FLUTED SEAL-TOP SPOON
CIRCA 1500
The fig-shaped bowl with facetted tapering handle, terminating in a fluted seal finial with stepped pediment, the seal engraved with initials 'WS'
6 in. (15.1 cm.) long
1 oz. (31 gr.)
Provenance
The Benson Collection by 1952.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1952, vol. I, p. 218, pl. 3.
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 92-93, no. 31.
Estimate
£4,000-6,000
27.
A HENRY VII PARCEL-GILT SILVER APOSTLE SPOON
CIRCA 1500
The fig-shaped bowl with facetted tapering handle, terminating in a silver-gilt finial cast as St. Philip, holding in his right hand the three loaves, on a reeded pediment, the back of the bowl later engraved with initials 'EP', marked in bowl
6 7/8 in. (17.5 cm.) long
1 oz. 9 dwt. (44 gr.)
Provenance
H. D. Ellis, Esq.
The Late H. D. Ellis, Esq., now the Property of Lt. Col. I. Bennett-Stanford; Sotheby's, London, 30 May 1935, lot 35 (£35 to How).
The Biggs Collection; Christie's, London, 20 September 1978, lot 37 (£3,600 to How).
The Benson Collection.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1953, vol. II, p. 72, pl. 13.
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 94-97, no. 32.
Estimate
£15,000-25,000
28.
A HENRY VII SILVER MAIDENHEAD SPOON
CIRCA 1510, MAKER'S MARK SIX PELLETS WITHIN A CIRCLE
The fig-shaped bowl with facetted tapering handle, the finial cast as a maidenhead, marked in bowl
6 1/4 in. (15.9 cm.) long
19 dwt. (30 gr.)
Provenance
The Benson Collection, probably acquired after 1957.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 98-99, no. 33.
Estimate
£5,000-8,000
29.
A ROMAN SILVER SPOON
CIRCA 250-350
The ovoid bowl with tapering square end, connected to the facetted tapering handle with a reeded hook
5 3/8 in. (13.8 cm.)
9 dwt. (13 gr.)
Provenance
By tradition found in a chalkpit at Northfleet, Kent.
Sir J. Noble.
Sir J. Noble; Christie's, London, 25 November 1943, lot 137 (£52 to How).
The Benson Collection.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate , London, 1952, vol. I, p. 16, pl. 2.
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 100-101, no. 34.
Estimate
£600-800
30.
AN EDWARD II SILVER ACORN-KNOP SPOON
CIRCA 1300
The fig-shaped bowl with facetted tapering handle, terminating in a finial cast as an acorn
5 5/8 in. (14.4 cm.) long
14 dwt. (21 gr.)
Provenance
The Benson Collection, probably acquired after 1957.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 102-103, no. 35.
Estimate
£5,000-8,000
31.
AN EDWARD II SILVER ROTHER-TYPE ACORN-KNOP SPOON
CIRCA 1300-1325
The fig-shaped bowl with facetted tapering handle, terminating in a finial cast as an acorn
5 3/4 in. (14.6 cm.) long
13 dwt. (20 gr.)
Provenance
By tradition found as part of a hoard of spoons in the River Rother, near New Romney, Kent.
The Benson Collection, probably acquired after 1957.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1952, vol. I, p. 354, pl. 2.
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 104-105, no. 36.
Estimate
£5,000-8,000
32.
AN EDWARD II SILVER ACORN-KNOP SPOON
CIRCA 1300
The fig-shaped bowl with facetted tapering handle, terminating in a finial cast as an acorn,marked in the bowl with a 'Grecian' leopard's head
6 in. (15 cm.) long
14 dwt. (22 gr.)
Provenance
The Benson Collection, probably acquired after 1957.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate , London, 1957, vol. III, p. 13, pl. 7 (the mark).
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 106-107, no. 37.
Estimate
£2,000-3,000
33.
A HENRY IV SILVER DIAMOND-POINT SPOON
LONDON, CIRCA 1470, MAKER'S MARK A WHEATSHEAF
The fig-shaped bowl with facetted handle, terminating in a diamond-point finial, marked in bowlwith 'African' leopard's head, the back of the handle marked with maker's mark
6 3/8 in. (16.1 cm.) long
16 dwt. (25 gr.)
Provenance
The Benson Collection by 1952.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver, Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1952, vol. I, p. 98, pl. 11 (right-hand spoon).
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 108-109, no. 38.
Catalogue Notes
The maker's mark is illustrated in Jacksons as circa 1470 and is the earliest maker's mark he records.
Estimate
£15,000-25,000
34.
A RICHARD II SILVER ACORN-KNOP SPOON
CIRCA 1380, MAKER'S MARK A WHEEL WITH FIVE SPOKES
The fig-shaped bowl with facetted tapering handle, terminating in a finial cast as an acorn,marked in bowl
6 1/4 in. (15.7 cm.) long
14 dwt. (21 gr.)
Provenance
The Benson Collection by 1952.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1952, vol. I, opposite p. 106, pl. 15.
Literature
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 110-111, no. 39.
Estimate
£3,000-5,000
35.
A HENRY VI SILVER DIAMOND-POINT SPOON
CIRCA 1440
The fig-shaped bowl with facetted handle, terminating in a diamond-point finial, marked in bowlwith 'Arabian' leopard's head
6 1/4 in. (15.8 cm.)
1 oz. (30 gr.)
Provenance
The Benson Collection by 1952.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1952, vol. I, p. 98, pl. 11 (left-hand spoon).
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 112-113, no. 40.
Estimate
£10,000-15,000
36.
AN EDWARD IV SILVER DIAMOND POINT SPOON
LONDON, BY TRADITION 1478, MAKER'S MARK A PELLET
The fig-shaped bowl with facetted handle, terminating in a diamond-point finial, marked in bowlwith 'Arctic' leopard's head
5 3/4 in. (14.5 cm.) long
14 dwt. (22 gr.)
Provenance
Harvey Clarke collection, by circa 1914 and by descent to
Col. Ralph Clarke, T.D., D.L., M.P.; Christie's, London, 13 July 1953, lot 84 (£70 to How).
The Benson Collection by 1957.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1957, vol. III, p. 27 and p. 32, pl. 1 (mark).
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 114-115, no. 41.
Estimate
£2,000-3,000
37.
A HENRY VII SILVER SEAL-TOP SPOON
CIRCA 1500
The fig-shaped bowl with tapering facetted stem, terminating in a fluted seal, engraved with initials, perhaps 'IP' or 'EP' conjoined
6 in. (15.1 cm.) long
1 oz. 3 dwt. (36 gr.)
Provenance
The Benson Collection by 1952.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1952, vol. I, p. 216, pl. 2.
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 116-117, no. 42.
Estimate
£3,000-5,000
38.
A CHARLES II SILVER TREFID CONDIMENT SPOON WITH A WILLIAM AND MARY SILVER TREFID CONDIMENT SPOON
THE FIRST MARK OF JEREMY JOHNSON, LONDON, CIRCA 1675, THE SECOND LONDON, 1699, MAKER'S MARK POSSIBLY FOR DAVENPORT
Each Trefid pattern, the first engraved with a crest, the second with a rat-tail, the first marked in the bowl with leopard's head, the back of the handle marked with maker's mark and lion passant,the second marked on the back of the handle
each 4 in. (10.3 cm.)
1 oz. (32 gr.)
Provenance
The Benson Collection by 1952.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1952, vol. I, p. 328, pl. 2.
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 118-121, nos. 43 and 44.
Estimate
£1,200-1,800
39.
A SILVER-GILT APOSTLE SPOON
19TH CENTURY, MAKER'S MARK FOUR PELLETS WITHIN A CIRCLE
The fig-shaped bowl with facetted tapering handle, terminating in a finial cast as either St. Jude or St. Thomas, holding either the long cross or spear, with the top lacking, marked in the bowl
7 1/2 in. (19.2 cm.) long
2 oz. 1 dwt. (64 gr.)
Provenance
The Benson Collection by 1952.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1952, vol. II, p. 374, pl. 1.
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 122-123, no. 45.
Estimate
£400-600
40.
AN ITALIAN MEDIEVAL SILVER FORK
CIRCA 1400
The tubular handle with a central reeded knop and a diamond-point finial, with two tines
5 3/8 in. (13.5 cm.) long
5 dwt. (8 gr.)
Provenance
The Benson Collection by 1957.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 124-125, no. 46.
Estimate
£700-1,000
For further details please contact:
Anastasia Tennant
Acquisitions, Exports, Loans and Collections Unit
Arts Council England
14 Great Peter Street
London SW1P 3NQ
Direct Line: 020 7973 5223
Email: anastasia.tennant@artscouncil.org.uk
Direct Fax: 020 7973 6590
Commissioned by M. Peilhon, Secretaire du Roi, in 1751 from the artist
His (deceased) sale Paris, Remy, 16th May 1763, lot 82
Randon de Boisset, Receveur general des Finances, his (deceased) sale, Paris, Remy, 1777, lot 202
Mr Arbert, Joallier de la Couronne, his (deceased) sale, Paris, 2nd March 1786, lot 58
Anonymous sale, Paris, 17th March, 1789, lot 88
M. Marin, his deceased sale, Paris, Lebrun Saubert, 22 March 1790, lot 339
Now in a British private collection
Guide Price: £5,000,000
Sale: Christie's Centuries of Style Sale, King Street, London, 4th June 2013
A ROMAN SILVER SPOON
CIRCA 350 A.D.
The fluted elongated bowl, the rat-tail terminating in a circular knop, engraved on each side with a cross, one with traces of niello, with facetted tapering handle
8 7/8 in. (22.7 cm.) long
1 oz. 9 dwt. (46 gr.)
Provenance
Harvey Clarke, Esq., of Brook House, Ardingly, Sussex, by circa 1914 and by descent to
Col. Ralph Clarke, T.D., D.L., M.P.; Christie's, London, 13 July 1953, lot 93, part (£60 to How).
The Benson Collection.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 18-19, no. 1.
Estimate
£1,500-2,500
2.
A ROMAN SILVER SPOON
CIRCA 350 A.D.
The circular bowl with rat-tail, with tapering facetted handle
5 5/8 in. (14.3 cm.) long
2 dwt. (0.32 gr.)
Provenance
Excavated in London, circa 1950 and presented to Mrs. How.
The Benson Collection by 1952.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1952, vol. 1, p. 364, pl. 7.
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 20-21, no. 2.
Estimate
£1,000-1,500
3.
AN ANGLO-SAXON SPOON
7TH-11TH CENTURY
The circular bowl with five pierced holes, with flattened tapering ferrule and tubular handle with loop finial
6 5/8 in. (17 cm.) long
Provenance
The Benson Collection by 1952.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1952, vol. 1, p. 366, pl. 8.
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 22-24, no. 3.
Estimate
£700-1,000
4.
A MEDIEVAL SILVER-GILT WARWICK SPOON
CIRCA 1150-1350
The slightly ovoid bowl with twisted tubular handle
3 3/4 in. (9.6 cm.) long
11 dwt. (17 gr.)
Provenance
By tradition excavated at Warwick.
Colonel R. F. Ratcliff (c.1867-1943).
Colonel R. F. Ratcliff, C.M.G., deceased, late of Newton Park,
Burton-on-Trent; Christie's, London, 10 June 1943, lot 186, part (£9 to How).
The Benson Collection.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1952, vol. 1, p. 56, pl. 11.
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 25-26, no. 4.
Estimate
£1,000-1,500
5.
A MEDIEVAL SILVER ACORN-KNOP SPOON
PROBABLY LINCOLN, CIRCA 12TH-13TH CENTURY
The circular bowl with tapering facetted handle, the silver-gilt finial cast as an acorn on a stepped pediment
5 5/8 in. (14.3 cm.) long
12 dwt. (19 gr.)
Provenance
By tradition excavated at Bailgate, Lincoln circa 1920.
Sold to H. Jervis of Beckingham, Doncaster who was able to remove the incrustations to reveal the spoon in its current form.
The Benson Collection by 1952.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1952, vol. II, p. 394, pl. 10.
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 27-28, no. 5.
Estimate
£8,000-12,000
6.
AN EDWARD II SILVER ACORN-KNOP SPOON
CIRCA 1300-1325
The fig-shaped bowl with tapering facetted handle, terminating in a finial cast as an acorn
5 3/4 in. (14.5 cm.)
14 dwt. (21 gr.)
Provenance
By tradition found as part of a hoard of spoons in the River Rother, near New Romney, Kent.
The Benson Collection by 1952.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1952, vol. I, p. 152, pl. 2.
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 29-31, no. 6.
Estimate
£6,000-8,000
7.
AN EDWARD II SILVER ACORN-KNOP SPOON
CIRCA 1300-1325
The fig-shaped bowl with tapering facetted handle, terminating in a finial cast as an acorn
5 3/8 in. (13.5 cm.) long
11 dwt. (17 gr.)
Provenance
The Benson Collection by 1952.
Exhibited
Toronto, The Royal Ontario Museum, Seven Centuries of English Domestic Silver, January to March 1958, no. A.2 (lent by Miss J. P. Benson).
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1952, vol. I, p. 104, pl. 14.
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 32-33, no. 7.
Estimate
£6,000-8,000
8.
AN EDWARD III SILVER DIAMOND-POINT SPOON
CIRCA 1350
The fig-shaped bowl with facetted handle, terminating in a diamond-point finial, marked in bowlwith 'Indian' leopard's head
6 in. (15.4 cm.)
13 dwt. (20 gr.)
Provenance
The Benson Collection by 1952.
Exhibited
Toronto, The Royal Ontario Museum, Seven Centuries of English Domestic Silver, January to March 1958, no. A.3 (lent by Miss J. P. Benson).
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1952, vol. I, p. 100, pl. 12.
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 34-35, no. 8.
Estimate
£30,000-50,000
9.
A HENRY IV SILVER MINIATURE DIAMOND-POINT SPOON
CIRCA 1400
The fig-shaped bowl with facetted handle, terminating in a diamond-point finial, the back of the bowl engraved with initials
3 3/8 in. (8.5 cm.)
3 dwt. (6 gr.)
Provenance
The Benson Collection by 1952.
Exhibited
Toronto, The Royal Ontario Museum, Seven Centuries of English Domestic Silver, January to March 1958, no. A.5 (lent by Miss J. P.Benson).
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate , London, 1952, vol. I, p. 162, pl. I.
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 36-37, no. 9.
Estimate
£5,000-8,000
10.
A HENRY IV SILVER RINGED ACORN-KNOP SPOON
CIRCA 1400
The fig-shaped bowl with slightly tapering facetted handle, terminating in a cast acorn finial with wreath or spiral-fluted ring below, the back of the bowl engraved with initials
6 1/4 in. (15.8 cm.) long
1 oz (30 gr.)
Provenance
Dr. W. Harris; Christie's, London, 19 June 1957, lot 103, (£270 to How).
The Benson Collection.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1952, vol. I, p. 154, pl. 3.
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 38-39, no. 10.
Estimate
£8,000-12,000
11.
A HENRY IV SILVER MINIATURE DIAMOND-POINT SPOON
CIRCA 1400
The fig-shaped bowl with facetted handle, terminating in a diamond-point finial, the back of the bowl with traces of initials
2 3/8 in. (6.1 cm.) long
3 dwt. (5 gr.)
Provenance
The Benson Collection, probably acquired after 1957.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 40-41, no. 11.
Estimate
£5,000-8,000
12.
A HENRY IV SILVER DIAMOND-POINT SPOON
CIRCA 1400
The fig-shaped bowl with facetted handle, terminating in a diamond-point finial, marked in bowlwith 'Syrian' leopard's head
6 1/2 in. (16.6 cm.) long
16 dwt. (25 gr.)
Provenance
The Benson Collection by 1952.
Exhibited
Toronto, The Royal Ontario Museum, Seven Centuries of English Domestic Silver, January to March 1958, no. A.4 (lent by Miss J. P. Benson).
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1952, vol. I, p. 9, no. 1 and p. 96, pl. 10.
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 42-43, no. 12.
Estimate
£20,000-30,000
13.
A HENRY VI SILVER MAIDENHEAD SPOON
MAKER'S MARK A CINQUEFOIL, CIRCA 1450
The fig-shaped bowl with a slightly tapering facetted handle, terminating in a cast maidenhead finial, the bowl later engraved with initials 'M' over 'E*I', marked in bowl
6 in. (15.4 cm.) long
19 dwt. (29 gr.)
Provenance
The Benson Collection by 1952.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1952, vol. II, p. 180, pl. I.
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 44-46, no. 13.
Estimate
£7,000-10,000
14.
THE BENSON WODEWOSE
A HENRY VI SILVER WODEWOSE SPOON
PERHAPS COGGESHALL, ESSEX, CIRCA 1440
The fig-shaped bowl with tapering facetted handle, terminating in a cast and gilt figure of a wild man, holding a club and supported on a pediment, marked in bowl with 'Arabian' leopard's head
7 5/8 in. (19.5 cm.) long
1 oz. 7 dwt. (41 gr.)
Provenance
Sir Arthur Evans (1851-1941), archeologist, excavator of the Palace of Knossos
The Sir Arthur Evans Collection; Sotheby's, London, 30 May 1935, lot 99 (£215).
The Benson Collection by 1952.
Exhibited
Toronto, The Royal Ontario Museum, Seven Centuries of English Domestic Silver, January to March 1958, no. A.6 (lent by Miss J. P. Benson).
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
'The Sale Room, Total of £16,500 for Old Silver', The Times, Friday, 13 May 1935, p. 11, column E.
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1952, vol. I, p. 108, pl. 16.
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 47-50, no. 14.
Catalogue Notes
The suggestion of Coggeshall as the origin for this group of spoons is based on a record at the Worshipful Company of Goldsmiths which record a group of twelve such spoons. There are also will references to woodwose spoons so this is by no means certain. The spoons found at Coggeshall were found to be substandard and so it would be doubtful that the Company would have allowed them to be sold.
Estimate
£40,000-60,000
15.
AN EDWARD IV SILVER PELLETED-BALL SPOON
CIRCA 1435-1440
The fig-shaped bowl with slightly tapering facetted handle, terminating in a pelleted-ball shaped finial, marked in bowl with 'Arabian' leopard's head
6 5/8 in. (16.8 cm.) long
17 dwt. (26 gr.)
Provenance
The Benson Collection, probably acquired after 1957.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 51-52, no. 15
Estimate
£10,000-15,000
16.
AN EDWARD III SILVER DIAMOND-POINT SPOON
CIRCA 1350
The fig-shaped bowl with facetted handle, terminating in a diamond-point finial, marked in bowlwith 'Indian' leopard's head
6 1/4 in. (16 cm.) long
16 dwt. (26 gr.)
Provenance
The Benson Collection by 1952.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1952, vol. I, p. 100, pl. 12.
Literature
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 53-54, no. 16.
Estimate
£30,000-50,000
17.
THE BENSON APOSTLE SPOONS
A SET OF SIX EDWARD IV PARCEL-GILT SILVER APOSTLE SPOONS
THE SET WILL BE OFFERED AS A SINGLE LOT, DESCRIBED AS LOT 324, SUBJECT TO A RESERVE PRICE. IF THIS PRICE IS NOT REACHED, THE SET WILL BE OFFERED AS SEPARATE LOTS 324A-F.
MAKER'S MARK A BIFURCATED CINQUEFOIL IN A DOTTED CIRCA, CIRCA 1475
Each with fig-shaped bowl, the slightly tapering facetted handles terminating in a cast silver-gilt apostle, comprising:
a.) St. Paul, cast looking slightly to the right and holding the long sword in his left hand, his right hand raised in blessing, nimbus lacking, marked in bowl
7 5/8 in. (19.2 cm.) long
2 oz. (62 gr.)
b.) An Apostle lacking his attribute, cast with both arms held in front of him, the nimbus engraved with rays, marked in bowl
7 3/8 in. (18.9 cm.) long
2 oz. (62 gr.)
c.) An Apostle lacking his attribute, from the same casting as b.), cast with both arms held in front of him, the nimbus lacking, marked in bowl
7 3/8 in. (18.8 cm.) long
1 oz. 19 dwt. (61 gr.)
d.) An Apostle, with part of an attribute, perhaps the key of St. Peter, cast with part of his robe draped over his arm, both arms held in front of him, the nimbus engraved with rays, marked in bowl
7 1/4 in. (19 cm.) long
2 oz. 1 dwt. (63 gr.)
e.) An Apostle, with part of an attribute, perhaps the flaying knife of St. Bartholomew, from the same casting as d.), cast with part of his robe draped over his arm, both arms held in front of him, the nimbus lacking, marked in bowl
7 3/8 in. (18.9 cm.) long
1 oz. 19 dwt. (60 gr.)
f.) An Apostle lacking his attribute, from the same casting as a.), cast looking slightly to the right, his right hand raised in blessing, nimbus lacking, marked in bowl
7 1/4 in. (19 cm.) long
2 oz. 1 dwt. (64 gr.)
12 oz. (374 gr.)
Provenance
The Benson Collection by 1952.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1952, vol. II, pp. 66-69, pl. 11 and 12.
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 55-70, nos. 17-22.
Estimate
£150,000-250,000
18.
AN EDWARD IV SILVER WRYTHEN-KNOP SPOON
LONDON, 1481 OR 1482, MAKER'S MARK A WHEEL
The fig-shaped bowl with facetted slightly tapering handle, terminating in a cast wrythen knop, the handle later stamped 'Breadalbane', marked in the bowl with leopard's head, the back of the handle with maker's mark and date letter
6 5/8 in. (16.8 cm.) long
1 oz. 2 dwt. (35 gr.)
Provenance
Gavin, 1st Marquess of Breadalbane (1851-1922).
Gavin, 1st Marquess of Breadalbane; Christie's, London, 12 May 1926, lot 48.
The Benson Collection by 1952.
Exhibited
Toronto, The Royal Ontario Museum, Seven Centuries of English Domestic Silver, January to March 1958, no. A.10 (lent by Miss J. P. Benson).
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Possibly Charles G. Rupert, Apostle Spoons , Oxford, 1929, pl.III.
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1952, vol. I, p. 184, pl. 2.
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 71-73, no. 23.
Estimate
£10,000-15,000
19.
A HENRY VII SILVER APOSTLE SPOON
MAKER'S MARK A FIVE POINTED MULLET OR A LETTER H, CIRCA 1785
The fig-shaped bowl with facetted slightly tapering handle, terminating in a finial cast as St. Andrew holding a saltire Cross in his left hand, the nimbus engraved with rays, marked in bowlwith five pointed mullet, the back of the handle stamped 'h'
7 1/8 in. (18.2 cm.) long
1 oz. 6 dwt. (41 gr.)
Provenance
The Benson Collection by 1952.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1952, vol. II, p. 60, pl. 7.
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 74-76, no. 24.
Catalogue Notes
A bowl of a spoon with the same mark in the bowl is illustrated in Charles G. Rupert, ApostleSpoons, Oxford, 1929, pl. IV.
Estimate
£6,000-8,000
20.
A HENRY VII SILVER HEXAGONAL-KNOP SPOON
CIRCA 1490
The fig-shaped bowl with facetted slightly tapering handle, terminating in a cast hexagonal finial with reeded pediment, the back of the bowl engraved with initials
4 3/8 in. (11.1 cm.) long
9 dwt. (14 gr.)
Provenance
The Benson Collection by 1952.
Exhibited
Toronto, The Royal Ontario Museum, Seven Centuries of English Domestic Silver, January to March 1958, no. A.11 (lent by Miss J. P. Benson).
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1952, vol. I, p. 156, pl. 4
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 77-78, no. 25.
Estimate
£4,000-6,000
21.
A HENRY VII SILVER APOSTLE SPOON
LONDON, 1490, MAKER'S MARK SLIGHTLY OVERSTRIKING THE DATE LETTER, TRADITIONALLY DESCRIBED AS A GOTHIC L
The fig-shaped bowl with facetted slightly tapering handle, terminating in a finial cast as St James the Less, holding in his left hand the fullers bat, supported on a waisted and reeded pediment, the circular nimbus engraved with rays, marked in the bowl with leopard's head, the back of the handle with date letter and maker's mark
7 1/8 in. (18.2 cm.) long
1 oz. 9 dwt. (45 gr.)
Provenance
The Benson Collection, probably acquired after 1957.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 79-81, no. 26.
Catalogue Notes
This apostle spoon is originally from a set which is believed to be the earliest recorded apostle spoons bearing the full London hallmarks.
Estimate
£15,000-25,000
22.
A HENRY VII SILVER VIRGIN AND HEART SPOON
LONDON, CIRCA 1490, MAKER'S MARK A WHEEL
The fig-shaped bowl with a tapering facetted handle, terminating in a cast Virgin and Heart finial, the back of the bowl later engraved with a coat-of-arms with a mullet for difference, marked in the bowl with leopard's, the back of the handle marked with maker's mark
6 7/8 in. (17.4 cm.) long
1 oz. 2 dwt. (35 gr.)
Provenance
J. H. Walker.
The J. H. Walker Collection; Sotheby's, London, 1 and 2 July 1954 (£640 to How).
The Benson Collection, probably acquired after 1957.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 82-84, no. 27.
Catalogue Notes
Other spoons similarly engraved with a later coat-of-arms include a slip top by Thomas Brothwell, London, 1627 (Woolley and Wallis, 28 January 2004, lot 48); a puritan by Jeremy Johnson, London, circa 1650 (Phillips, London, 15 October 2001, lot 407) and a slip top by Daniel Cary, London, 1639 (Lawrences, Crewkerne, 5 July 2011, lot 131 and previously from the Biggs Collection, Christie's, London, 20 September 1978, lot 71).
Estimate
£15,000-25,000
23.
A HENRY VII SILVER HEXAGONAL-KNOP SPOON
LONDON, 1494, MAKER'S MARK VV CONJOINED
The fig-shaped bowl with facetted tapering handle, terminating in hexagonal finial, marked with leopard's head in bowl and with maker's mark and date letter on back of handle
6 3/8 in. (16.2 cm.) long
1 oz. 10 dwt. (47 gr.)
Provenance
Captain Richard William Gillespie.
A Gentleman [Capt. R. W. Gillespie]; Christie's, London, 6 April 1911, lot 121 (£430 to Crichton).
with Crichton Brothers from 1911.
Henry Newton Veitch (d.1925), 20 Coleherne Court, London.
The Benson Collection by 1952.
Exhibited
Toronto, The Royal Ontario Museum, Seven Centuries of English Domestic Silver, January to March 1958, no. A.12 (lent by Miss J. P. Benson).
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
H. N. Veitch, Catalogue, 31 May 1922, catalogue number 11.
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate , London, 1952, vol. I, p. 92, pl. 8.
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 85-86, no. 28.
Estimate
£15,000-25,000
24.
A HENRY VII SILVER 'BW' FINIAL SPOON
LONDON, 1494, MAKER'S MARK A LEAF
The fig-shaped bowl with facetted tapering stem, terminating in a fan shaped finial, the front cast with the initial 'B', the back with the initials 'W', each on a matted ground, with a stepped pediment, the front of the handle engraved with a leaf mark, marked in the bowl with leopard's head, the back of the handle marked with maker's mark and date letter
6 1/4 in. (16.5 cm.) long
1 oz. 6 dwt. (41 gr.)
Provenance
Sydney Ernest Kennedy, by 1901.
S. E. Kennedy, Christie's, London, 18 March 1918.
Harvey Clarke collection, by circa 1914 and by descent to
Col. Ralph Clarke, T.D., D.L., M.P.; Christie's, London, 13 July 1953, lot 92 part (£300 to How).
The Cookson Collection by 1957.
The Benson Collection, acquired after 1957.
Exhibited
London, The Burlington Fine Arts Club, Exhibition of a Collection of Silversmiths' Work of European Origin, 1901, case E, no. 9.
Toronto, The Royal Ontario Museum, Seven Centuries of English Domestic Silver, January to March 1958, no. A.13 (lent by an anonymous English owner).
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
J. S. Gardner, ed., Exhibition of a Collection of Silversmiths' Work of European Origin, London, 1901, p. 44, no. 9.
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate , London, 1957, vol. III, p. 122, pl. 11.
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 87-89, no. 29.
Estimate
£30,000-50,000
25.
A HENRY VII SILVER DIAMOND-POINT SPOON
LONDON, 1498, MAKER'S MARK AN ARROWHEAD
The fig-shaped bowl with facetted tapering handle, terminating in a diamond finial, the bowl later stamped with initials 'KD', marked in bowl with leopard's head, the back of the handle marked with maker's mark and date letter
5 7/8 in. (15 cm.) long
15 dwt. (24 gr.)
Provenance
The Benson Collection by 1952.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1952, vol. I, p. 9, no. 2 and p. 96, pl. 10.
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 90-91, no. 30.
Estimate
£12,000-18,000
26.
A HENRY VII SILVER FLUTED SEAL-TOP SPOON
CIRCA 1500
The fig-shaped bowl with facetted tapering handle, terminating in a fluted seal finial with stepped pediment, the seal engraved with initials 'WS'
6 in. (15.1 cm.) long
1 oz. (31 gr.)
Provenance
The Benson Collection by 1952.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1952, vol. I, p. 218, pl. 3.
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 92-93, no. 31.
Estimate
£4,000-6,000
27.
A HENRY VII PARCEL-GILT SILVER APOSTLE SPOON
CIRCA 1500
The fig-shaped bowl with facetted tapering handle, terminating in a silver-gilt finial cast as St. Philip, holding in his right hand the three loaves, on a reeded pediment, the back of the bowl later engraved with initials 'EP', marked in bowl
6 7/8 in. (17.5 cm.) long
1 oz. 9 dwt. (44 gr.)
Provenance
H. D. Ellis, Esq.
The Late H. D. Ellis, Esq., now the Property of Lt. Col. I. Bennett-Stanford; Sotheby's, London, 30 May 1935, lot 35 (£35 to How).
The Biggs Collection; Christie's, London, 20 September 1978, lot 37 (£3,600 to How).
The Benson Collection.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1953, vol. II, p. 72, pl. 13.
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 94-97, no. 32.
Estimate
£15,000-25,000
28.
A HENRY VII SILVER MAIDENHEAD SPOON
CIRCA 1510, MAKER'S MARK SIX PELLETS WITHIN A CIRCLE
The fig-shaped bowl with facetted tapering handle, the finial cast as a maidenhead, marked in bowl
6 1/4 in. (15.9 cm.) long
19 dwt. (30 gr.)
Provenance
The Benson Collection, probably acquired after 1957.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 98-99, no. 33.
Estimate
£5,000-8,000
29.
A ROMAN SILVER SPOON
CIRCA 250-350
The ovoid bowl with tapering square end, connected to the facetted tapering handle with a reeded hook
5 3/8 in. (13.8 cm.)
9 dwt. (13 gr.)
Provenance
By tradition found in a chalkpit at Northfleet, Kent.
Sir J. Noble.
Sir J. Noble; Christie's, London, 25 November 1943, lot 137 (£52 to How).
The Benson Collection.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate , London, 1952, vol. I, p. 16, pl. 2.
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 100-101, no. 34.
Estimate
£600-800
30.
AN EDWARD II SILVER ACORN-KNOP SPOON
CIRCA 1300
The fig-shaped bowl with facetted tapering handle, terminating in a finial cast as an acorn
5 5/8 in. (14.4 cm.) long
14 dwt. (21 gr.)
Provenance
The Benson Collection, probably acquired after 1957.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 102-103, no. 35.
Estimate
£5,000-8,000
31.
AN EDWARD II SILVER ROTHER-TYPE ACORN-KNOP SPOON
CIRCA 1300-1325
The fig-shaped bowl with facetted tapering handle, terminating in a finial cast as an acorn
5 3/4 in. (14.6 cm.) long
13 dwt. (20 gr.)
Provenance
By tradition found as part of a hoard of spoons in the River Rother, near New Romney, Kent.
The Benson Collection, probably acquired after 1957.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1952, vol. I, p. 354, pl. 2.
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 104-105, no. 36.
Estimate
£5,000-8,000
32.
AN EDWARD II SILVER ACORN-KNOP SPOON
CIRCA 1300
The fig-shaped bowl with facetted tapering handle, terminating in a finial cast as an acorn,marked in the bowl with a 'Grecian' leopard's head
6 in. (15 cm.) long
14 dwt. (22 gr.)
Provenance
The Benson Collection, probably acquired after 1957.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate , London, 1957, vol. III, p. 13, pl. 7 (the mark).
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 106-107, no. 37.
Estimate
£2,000-3,000
33.
A HENRY IV SILVER DIAMOND-POINT SPOON
LONDON, CIRCA 1470, MAKER'S MARK A WHEATSHEAF
The fig-shaped bowl with facetted handle, terminating in a diamond-point finial, marked in bowlwith 'African' leopard's head, the back of the handle marked with maker's mark
6 3/8 in. (16.1 cm.) long
16 dwt. (25 gr.)
Provenance
The Benson Collection by 1952.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver, Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1952, vol. I, p. 98, pl. 11 (right-hand spoon).
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 108-109, no. 38.
Catalogue Notes
The maker's mark is illustrated in Jacksons as circa 1470 and is the earliest maker's mark he records.
Estimate
£15,000-25,000
34.
A RICHARD II SILVER ACORN-KNOP SPOON
CIRCA 1380, MAKER'S MARK A WHEEL WITH FIVE SPOKES
The fig-shaped bowl with facetted tapering handle, terminating in a finial cast as an acorn,marked in bowl
6 1/4 in. (15.7 cm.) long
14 dwt. (21 gr.)
Provenance
The Benson Collection by 1952.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1952, vol. I, opposite p. 106, pl. 15.
Literature
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 110-111, no. 39.
Estimate
£3,000-5,000
35.
A HENRY VI SILVER DIAMOND-POINT SPOON
CIRCA 1440
The fig-shaped bowl with facetted handle, terminating in a diamond-point finial, marked in bowlwith 'Arabian' leopard's head
6 1/4 in. (15.8 cm.)
1 oz. (30 gr.)
Provenance
The Benson Collection by 1952.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1952, vol. I, p. 98, pl. 11 (left-hand spoon).
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 112-113, no. 40.
Estimate
£10,000-15,000
36.
AN EDWARD IV SILVER DIAMOND POINT SPOON
LONDON, BY TRADITION 1478, MAKER'S MARK A PELLET
The fig-shaped bowl with facetted handle, terminating in a diamond-point finial, marked in bowlwith 'Arctic' leopard's head
5 3/4 in. (14.5 cm.) long
14 dwt. (22 gr.)
Provenance
Harvey Clarke collection, by circa 1914 and by descent to
Col. Ralph Clarke, T.D., D.L., M.P.; Christie's, London, 13 July 1953, lot 84 (£70 to How).
The Benson Collection by 1957.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1957, vol. III, p. 27 and p. 32, pl. 1 (mark).
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 114-115, no. 41.
Estimate
£2,000-3,000
37.
A HENRY VII SILVER SEAL-TOP SPOON
CIRCA 1500
The fig-shaped bowl with tapering facetted stem, terminating in a fluted seal, engraved with initials, perhaps 'IP' or 'EP' conjoined
6 in. (15.1 cm.) long
1 oz. 3 dwt. (36 gr.)
Provenance
The Benson Collection by 1952.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1952, vol. I, p. 216, pl. 2.
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 116-117, no. 42.
Estimate
£3,000-5,000
38.
A CHARLES II SILVER TREFID CONDIMENT SPOON WITH A WILLIAM AND MARY SILVER TREFID CONDIMENT SPOON
THE FIRST MARK OF JEREMY JOHNSON, LONDON, CIRCA 1675, THE SECOND LONDON, 1699, MAKER'S MARK POSSIBLY FOR DAVENPORT
Each Trefid pattern, the first engraved with a crest, the second with a rat-tail, the first marked in the bowl with leopard's head, the back of the handle marked with maker's mark and lion passant,the second marked on the back of the handle
each 4 in. (10.3 cm.)
1 oz. (32 gr.)
Provenance
The Benson Collection by 1952.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1952, vol. I, p. 328, pl. 2.
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 118-121, nos. 43 and 44.
Estimate
£1,200-1,800
39.
A SILVER-GILT APOSTLE SPOON
19TH CENTURY, MAKER'S MARK FOUR PELLETS WITHIN A CIRCLE
The fig-shaped bowl with facetted tapering handle, terminating in a finial cast as either St. Jude or St. Thomas, holding either the long cross or spear, with the top lacking, marked in the bowl
7 1/2 in. (19.2 cm.) long
2 oz. 1 dwt. (64 gr.)
Provenance
The Benson Collection by 1952.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
Commander G. E. P. How and J. P. How, English and Scottish Silver Spoons, Mediaeval to Late Stuart and Pre-Elizabethan Hallmarks on English Plate, London, 1952, vol. II, p. 374, pl. 1.
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 122-123, no. 45.
Estimate
£400-600
40.
AN ITALIAN MEDIEVAL SILVER FORK
CIRCA 1400
The tubular handle with a central reeded knop and a diamond-point finial, with two tines
5 3/8 in. (13.5 cm.) long
5 dwt. (8 gr.)
Provenance
The Benson Collection by 1957.
Exhibited
On loan to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 2006-2012.
Literature
D. J. E. Constable, The Benson Collection of Early Silver Spoons, Golden Cross, 2012, pp. 124-125, no. 46.
Estimate
£700-1,000
Anastasia Tennant
Acquisitions, Exports, Loans and Collections Unit
Arts Council England
14 Great Peter Street
London SW1P 3NQ
Direct Line: 020 7973 5223
Email: anastasia.tennant@artscouncil.org.uk
Direct Fax: 020 7973 6590
