An important George IV Drinks Tray made in London in 1825 by John Bridge.
An important George IV Drinks Tray made in London in 1825 by John Bridge.
374975
The Tray is modelled in an unusual size with a shaped oval form standing on four outstanding cast bracket feet centred by overlapping Rococo raying shells, with scrolls below and flanked by acanthus foliage and detailed fruiting vines, echoing its use. The stepped rim is decorated with gadrooning interspersed with shells and the naturalistic handles are modelled as oak branches, displaying oak leaves and acorns, finely textured to simulate the wooden surface of the tree. The centre is engraved with a contemporary Armorial, with Crest and Motto above, all flanked by a pluming foliate scroll cartouche. The engraving has been executed to the highest standard. The Arms incorporate a finely detailed engraved Bridge, as do the wings in the Crest. This piece is in excellent condition and is very well marked on the reverse, with John Bridge's maker's mark bearing the crown above, signifying his Royal status.
The Arms are those of Bridge, as borne by the silversmith John Bridge, impaling Bragge. On 12th June, 1828, Robert Bridge of Weymouth, widower, married Elizabeth Bragge at Lorton in Cumberland. In the 1851 census he is listed as a landed proprietor (aged 56) and Elizabeth is aged 44. Robert was the son of Robert and Ann Bridge and was formally baptised at St, Peter's Church, Dorchester on February 22nd, 1799. The family of John Bridge was based at Piddlethrenthide near Dorchester. Robert also had a brother, John Gawler Bridge who was a partner in the firm of Rundell, Bridge and Rundell and both were the nephews of the great silversmith, John Bridge. Robert, owner of this tray, died in 1857 and his wife Elizabeth died in 1865.
Length: 22.5 inches.
Width: 13 inches.
Height: 2.1 inches.
Weight: 107 oz.
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 and Elizabeth is aged 44. Robert was the son of Robert and Ann Bridge and was formally baptised at St, Peter's Church, Dorchester on February 22nd, 1799. The family of John Bridge was based at Piddlethrenthide near Dorchester. Robert also had a brother, John Gawler Bridge who was a partner in the firm of Rundell, Bridge and Rundell and both were the nephews of the great silversmith, John Bridge. Robert, owner of this tray, died in 1857 and his wife Elizabeth died in 1865.Length: 22.5 inches.Width: 13 inches.Height: 2.1 inches.Weight: 107 oz.){kind=link}