Description: This refined set of ten silver plates made by James Young in London in 1782 represents a significant example of English silverware from the George III period, considered one of the most important for technical quality and formal elegance in 18th-century British production. In fact, during the reign of George III, London manufactories developed a balanced decorative language, characterized by sober lines and great attention to metalworking.
The plates feature an elegant shaped border with twisted-ribbon motif, a decorative element typical of late Georgian taste. Moreover, the presence of the engraved noble coat of arms testifies to an aristocratic or upper-middle-class commission, consistent with the representative purpose of these table services. The surface, deliberately essential in the central part, enhances the quality of the hammering and the brilliance of the silver.
From a historical and collecting point of view, the hallmarks present are particularly relevant: the Lion Passant, guarantee of English sterling silver; the Lion’s Head, mark of the city of London; the letter “g” within a shield, referring to the year 1782; and finally the I.Y. mark, attributed to James Young. Therefore, the set can be perfectly traced back to the strict English regulations on the sumptuary arts of the period.
With a total weight of 4613 grams, the service combines historical value, executive quality and decorative function. Moreover, the stylistic coherence of the set increases its interest within the field of 18th-century English silverware, today particularly appreciated by international collectors.
Hammer Price: € 4.340,00
