CHARLES II PROVINCIAL SILVER WINE TASTER

England, c1670

Maker's Mark Only (Indistinct - "H"?), possibly West Country

The shallow circular bowl with punched stylized flowers and sided by twin wire-work s-scroll

handles, the interior centering a six petaled flower within a beaded roundel, the rim with

contemporary scratched initials "H" over "IM", marked verso with rubbed maker's mark - possibly H

Although there are several records of wine tasters in English 14^th and 15^th century manuscripts,

the earliest British silver wine tasters are from the 17^th century, with very few being made after

1750. Most from the 18^th and 19^th centuries come from France.

There were two forms: the above form with a shallow bowl and 2 wire loop

handles, and a later heavier form with sloping sides and domed center to

enable vinters to carry them in their pockets without damage

Interestingly, wine tasters are an outgrowth of small tasters made during the medieval

period to taste contents of bowls, to convince guests that the food was not poisoned.

Condition: Excellent; maker's mark worn

3.5" Diameter

2.1 oz.

In Stock - Images Forthcoming

#5942

sold

Mark - appearing probably an H

For related silver, please click below:


Charles II Lace Back Spoon, Issod	Charles II Silver Brazier,"B", 1677	Commonwealth/Charles II Miniature Porringer, IG	Charles I Seal Top Spoon, Salisbury, 1640-50

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