Antique Victorian Sterling Silver Kings Pattern Fish Server by William Eaton, 1841

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A substantial early Victorian sterling silver fish slice or server by William Eaton, fully hallmarked in London for 1841. Executed … Read more A substantial early Victorian sterling silver fish slice or server by William Eaton, fully hallmarked in London for 1841. Executed in the celebrated King’s pattern and double struck with decoration to both sides, the piece combines impressive silver weight with finely pierced craftsmanship and richly modelled classical ornament. ㅤ The broad serving blade is beautifully hand pierced with an arrangement of balanced symmetrical patterns contained within an elegant corded border. The intricate openwork creates an attractive contrast between the polished silver surfaces and negative space while retaining the substantial proportions expected of a quality Victorian serving piece. ㅤ The handle is executed in the highly recognisable King’s pattern, one of the most enduring British flatware designs of the 19th century. Characterised by elaborate shell, scroll and foliate ornament, the pattern required a comparatively heavy gauge of silver to accommodate its deeply modelled decoration. ㅤ This example is particularly attractive for being double struck, meaning that the ornamental pattern has been worked on both the front and reverse of the handle rather than being confined to a single face. ㅤ The terminal is richly embellished with scallop-shell and scrolling ornament, creating an impressive sculptural finish and balancing the substantial pierced blade below. ㅤ The piece carries London hallmarks for 1841 together with the maker’s mark of William Eaton, placing it firmly within the early years of Queen Victoria’s reign. ㅤ with a net sterling silver weight of 199.7 grams and an impressive overall height of 32.5 cm, the server is notably substantial and has an excellent sense of quality when handled. ㅤ The piece remains in very good antique condition, with no notable damage, bruising or repairs. It remains free from later presentation inscriptions or monograms, allowing the original decorative treatment to remain uninterrupted. ㅤ The sterling silver retains a beautiful bright patina and the server is clean and ready for practical use or display. ㅤ A particularly handsome example of early Victorian table silver, combining William Eaton’s craftsmanship with substantial double-struck King’s pattern decoration and an intricately pierced serving blade.

Maker: William Eaton Origin: London, England Date: 1841 Period: Victorian / Early 19th Century Style: King’s Pattern / Victorian Material: Sterling silver Techniques: Hand pierced, double struck Weight: 199.7 grams Measurements: Height: 32.5 cm Width: 6.7 cm Depth: Approximately 1.5 cm Blade: 16.5 × 6.7 cm Terminal Width: 3.2 cm See less