Here we have a handsome set of 4 substantial Georgian crested sterling salt cellars with an interesting possible Australian connexion via the escapades of British nobility, with marks for Rebecca Emes & Edward Barnard 1, London, 1822.
The crest of a dove with an olive branch in its beak proper perched on a rope is likely that of the Whannell family which is associated with the Buchanan clan.
The founder of this family was Peter Whannell, who was granted arms in 1778. His great-grandson, named Peter Brunton, had a rather colourful life. Born in India, he later went to Australia with his family and abandoned them there, fleeing from Australia to the U.S. in 1856 with his paramour- both of them were married at the time. After sparking McGowan’s war, he left to British Columbia but after a series of failed businesses, eventually settled in San Francisco. One wonders if this set of crested silver was one of the possessions he left behind…
Asides from this interesting bit of history, this is a a lovely set of antique silver. These would be lovely used as originally intended, but could also be used as sorbet cups.
Price marked at $3000AUD for the set.
Measurements: 5.6cm diameter, 8.6cm high. 569 grams total weight.
Excellent antique condition, marks overall crisp and well-struck. Thick gauge.
