Absolutely Stunning Irish Sterling Silver Heavy Gauge Circular Edwardian Sugar Bowl of exhibition quality and generous size in superb condition
The outturned gardooned rim above a very stylish chased body, superbly decorated depicting Doves perched on foliage and fruits. Raised on three shell capped hoof support feet.
Condition: Good condition with nice surface patination and no losses, professionally cleaned, possibly never used.
Mark of WEST & SON for Matther West & Son Dublin.
*An identical example by this well-known Irish maker can be seen at The Metropolitan Museum Collection in New York.
Assay mark for Dublin 1902
Height: 3” (7.5cm). Diameter: (at top rim) 5.5” (14cm).
Weight: (an impressive) 8 ozs. (228 grams).
Location: Dublin City, Ireland.
Affordable fixed price Worldwide Store to door shipping offered by Seller.
The firm dates its origin to 1720, but the first documented of the family's association with silver trade is in 1748 when John West (born 1734) apprenticed to Bartholomew Mosse, Master Silversmith of Dublin. He was followed by his brother Matthew (1747 - 1806) who apprentices in 1762.
After their apprenticeship both were active as silversmiths and Matthew became Master of the Company of Goldsmiths in 1783/4 and one of the most renowned silversmiths of Dublin.
Matthew West was active at Skinner's Row. In the 19th century the family continued the silversmiths and retailers' business as Clarke & West (c. 1803, Capel Street), Matthew West, Matthew West & Sons (c.1825) and later as James West & Son (from 1841 in new premises at 18/19, College Green), becoming one of the foremost jewellers in Ireland.
The British Royal Collection has two brooches made by West & Son. They were bought by Prince Albert for Queen Victoria on a visit to Dublin in 1849.
West & Son participated to the 1851 Great Exhibition in London and to the Dublin Exhibition of 1853.