A rare Charles II Wine Taster made in London in 1684 and stamped with the maker's mark of RS with a mullet below.

The Wine Taster stands on a narrow circular foot and has slightly baluster sides, and everted rim. This example has wire work 'S' scroll handles and is engraved, on the base, with a set of contemporary marriage initials. The bowl of the Taster displays a very crisp set of marks and the original hammer marks from when it was made. The maker's mark is shown on page 140 of Jackson's, 'Silver & Gold Marks.'

Very few Wine Tasters were made by English silversmiths because wine was not a national product and the majority are French. There were a small number produced in England, from 1645, and examples from Charles II's reign are rare.

Length, across the handles: 3.25 inches, 8.13cm.
Height: 1 inch, 2.5cm.