An exceptionally rare pair of Charles II Covered Bowls made in London in 1677, Maker's Mark of a letter "B", formerly in the Albert Collection.

An exceptionally rare pair of Charles II Covered Bowls made in London in 1677, Maker's Mark of a letter "B", formerly in the Albert Collection.

£6,950
Reference

375221

Each Bowl is modelled in an octagonal form and stands on an applied foot of the same form, decorated with reeding.  Each has a pair of G-scroll astragal moulded handles with trefid terminals.  The slightly domed pull-off covers are of the same form as the body and terminates in a "C" scroll handle.  They are also engraved with a Saracen's head contemporary Crest.  Each is in excellent condition and both are fully marked in the foot and with the maker's mark and sterling mark on the underside of the cover.  The maker's mark is shown in Jackson's "Silver & Gold Marks" on page 133.  They have an excellent patina.

The plain form of these pieces is unusual for the period and there use is subject to debate.  They may well have been used on the table for exotic spices, or as part of a grand toilet service.  They were contained within the World famous Albert Collection and are illustrated on page 76 of the catalogue of the collection.  A copy of the page is attached.  As you will appreciate, to find a pair intact with their covers is extremely rare, which will have been the primary reason why they were acquired for the Albert Collection.

Length, handle to handle: 4 inches.

Diameter of the bowl: 2.75 inches.

Height: 2 inches.

Weight: 7.25 oz.

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