Magnificent Victorian Solid Silver Epergne by Carrington & Co - Royal Court Suppliers

Description and Details 

We are exceptionally pleased to be able to offer this magnificent solid silver epergne, made by silversmith John Bodman Carrington (Carrington & Co) in London, 1894. Carrington & Co are considered as one of London's great silversmiths receiving the royal warrant (Royal Silversmith) from none less than Queen Victoria, Prince Albert, Edward VII and George V.

Epergnes were usually used on dining tables of wealthy houses, aristocrats and even royalty to hold flowers, fruits or sweets in a luxurious and indulging manner as the main centre-piece of attraction for interior ornamentation. Epergnes were as much of a display piece as for practicality, which would often leave guests awestruck by the aesthetic beauty whilst none the less, symbolising the wealth and power of the homeowner. 

As such, this epergne exhibits an array of intricate and highlighting features, starting with the four cast-silver splayed arms that extend outward from the centre and elevate the four silver dishes that have a pierced quatrefoil motif (A quatrefoil is a decorative element consisting of a symmetrical shape which forms the overall outline of four partially overlapping circles of the same diameter.) The arms are paired with the opposite side in terms of height, allowing for a semi-symmetric design.

The base of the epergne is supported by four silver-cast feet which display intricate engravings, stippling and chasing designs throughout.

Following on to the mid-section, further piercings of quatrefoil motifs with chased acanthus leaves are present in addition to a widened base to which four applied-silver draped wreaths connect the four feet of the epergne. 

The top section consists of a flared bowl which is of substantial depth and volume allowing for an array of food/flowers to be placed within. The overall pierced design allows for the colours of the content to pass through in addition to the lighting adding to the overall aesthetics of this piece. Further embellishments such as the die-stamped heart-shaped scrolls are present in the inner surface of the bowl.

The "main bowl" in the centre is deep enough to place large fruits or a substantial bouquet of flowers and the four side-dishes are ideal for chocolates, berries, etc.

Each piece of the epergne can be stored away by dismantling the whole piece. Upon assembly, please note there are four numbers on the base of the arms to match the base feet - by following and matching the numbers the epergne can be assembled as intended.

All pieces are clearly hallmarked with matching hallmarks.

Needless to say, this epergne is an exemplary piece of fine Victorian craftsmanship and exhibits all the desirable traits of a fine piece of silverware. An ideal piece of fine silverware whether it is for the uncompromising collector or for a magnificent display on a dining table to highlight your interior.

Size

Overall Size

• Size (mm) Diameter: 600mm (inc arms) Height: 300mm
• Size (inches) Diameter: 23.6 (inc arms) Height: 11.8
• Weight: 2.5 Kg (88.1 oz)

Centre-Piece Bowl