Silver hallmarks, 1814
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Silver hallmarks, 1814
Silver hallmarks from 1814 on the handle of a piece of silver cutlery. A hallmark is an official mark made on an item of precious metal to guarantee the quality of the metal. In the past this was done by guilds, and later by assay offices. Hallmarks usually indicate the metal, who who made the item, and the year of marking. The three marks here (from left) are: the duty mark for George III; the date letter (T) for the year 1814; and the lion passant (walking lion) mark for sterling silver (.925 quality). At the top of the handle is the makers mark (MSES) for Mary and Elizabeth Sumner. Above this is a faint town of origin mark for London
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Media ID 6400563
© SHEILA TERRY/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Common Item Cutlery Familiar Object Hallmark Handle Items Mark Marks Metal Objects Precious Metal Quality Silver Standard Symbol Symbols 1814 Duty Elizabeth Hallmarks King George Iii Sterling Silver Sumner
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the intricate silver hallmarks from 1814 adorning the handle of a piece of silver cutlery. Hallmarks, official marks made on precious metal items, serve as a guarantee of their quality. In earlier times, guilds were responsible for these markings, later taken over by assay offices. The three distinct marks depicted here hold significant meaning: starting from the left is the duty mark representing George III's reign; next is the date letter "T" denoting the year 1814; and finally, the lion passant (walking lion) symbolizing sterling silver with a . 925 purity level. Atop this historical treasure lies Mary and Elizabeth Sumner's makers mark (MSES), while above it faintly lingers a town of origin mark indicating London. This image not only transports us to early 19th century Britain but also highlights an essential aspect of its industrial history. It reminds us that even everyday objects like cutlery possess rich stories and cultural significance. These hallmarks served as standard markers in English society during this era, ensuring consumers could trust in both craftsmanship and material quality. King George III's duty mark further emphasizes his role in regulating trade and maintaining standards within his kingdom. Through this photograph captured by Science Photo Library, we are granted a glimpse into an age when attention to detail was paramount and symbols held great importance—a testament to our enduring fascination with historical artifacts that continue to captivate our imagination today.
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