Description
An exceptionally fine and important George II sterling silver two-handled cup and cover, crafted by the celebrated London silversmith Thomas Farren in 1732. This monumental trophy cup reflects the height of Early Georgian craftsmanship, transitioning seamlessly between the formal structural symmetry of the Anglo-French Huguenot style and the emerging playfulness of Early Rococo design.
The body of the vessel features a classic inverted bell shape, divided by a prominent molded central girdle. The lower section of the main bowl is embellished with highly detailed, applied alternating patterns of cast strapwork, showcasing exquisite foliage motifs and openwork diaper-pattern lattices. The upper tier of the body is left unadorned to emphasize the brilliance of the mirror-polished sterling silver surface, dominated on one side by a contemporary hand-engraved armorial crest. The coat of arms is meticulously executed inside an asymmetrical, early Rococo scroll and floral cartouche, featuring a diagonal bend between two five-pointed stars. Flanking the body are two substantial, heavy-gauge double-scroll handles featuring leaf-capped thumbpieces and tight scroll terminals that offer a counter-balanced, tactile grip.
The vessel is crowned by its original, tightly fitting stepped domed cover, which echoes the ornamentation of the main body with matching applied cast strapwork panels and a multi-tiered baluster urn finial. The entire structure rests securely on a spread, molded circular pedestal foot. The base of the interior bowl bears a clear, crisp set of full London hallmarks, including the sovereign’s leopard head, the sterling lion passant, the “R” date letter for 1732, and the registered “TF” maker’s mark beneath a crown for Thomas Farren. This exceptional presentation piece represents a rare, museum-quality example of early 18th-century English silverwork, combining grand proportions, significant weight, and immaculate decorative preservation.
Weight: 66.8 troy ounces/2080 grams
Height: 11 inches/28cm
Width: 10.6 inches/27cm
Condition: Excellent throughout
Price: £12,500
