Britannia Standard Silver Monteith Bowl - Antique Victorian (1890)

Description

This magnificent antique Victorian Britannia standard* silver bowl has a large Monteith form onto a domed spreading foot.

The body of this antique Victorian monteith bowl is ornamented with exceptional chased fluted decoration below an inverted scalloped decorated border with a matte background.

The decoration to the body incorporates a large oval vacant cartouche, flanked with chased scrolling decoration accented with a scale motif style diaper pattern.

This exceptional example of antique silverware is fitted with two cast and applied handles, each fashioned in the form of lion's masks grasping a plain hallmarked drop-ring handle.

The detachable shaped rim of this antique Monteith bowl is embellished with applied strapwork style decoration accented with female mask motifs.

The foot of this large bowl is ornamented with a band of chased fluted decoration.

The underside of this impressive piece bears the presentation inscription 'This Bowl was made from the gold lace worn by W.Harrison whilst serving with the XI Prince Albert's Own Hussars. The lace being melted in his presence' above the signature 'W Harrison'.

Such large genuine examples, including the detachable rim, are becoming increasingly difficult to locate.

* Britannia Silver - The Britannia silver standard of 958 (95.84% of fine silver), denoted by the icon of the seated Britannia holding an oval shield, was introduced by William III in 1697. This was to indicate the slightly higher standard of silver from sterling silver standard of 925 (92.5% of fine silver).

Read a brief history of antique silver Monteith and punch bowls