Antique Georgian sterling silver tongs circa 1770 to 1780s, attributed to John Lambe

An elegant pair of Georgian sterling silver tongs circa 1770 to 1780s, with a sponsor’s mark of I.L. which we are attributing to John Lambe based upon research. Pieces with this IL mark with a pellet atwixt initials and marked only with the lion passant have been found which generally date to the 1780s to 1790s period; reasons for a lack of assay mark can range from a desire on the silversmith’s part to avoid the marking fee, or to avoid the plate tax on export. 

Based upon the Georgian design of these tongs as well as the oblong cartouche of the sponsor mark, this mark is most likely that of John Lambe, an illustrious silversmith of this period who was active from 1762 to 1791. His clients included the Duke of Northumberland, the Earl of Sandwich, the Duchess of Devonshire as well as the Marquess of Rockingham. 

Monogrammed with the initials “J” and “H L” to the bow. 

Price marked at $250 AUD.

Measurements: 32.4grams.

Excellent antique condition overall, marks are overall lightly worn but legible. 

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