Crested High Victorian Irish sterling silver sugar tongs, Dublin 1867

A beautiful crested High Victorian Irish sterling silver pair of sugar tongs with marks for Dublin, 1867, J.S. Well engraved with a dual crest which possibly indicates a matrimonial union, and profusely engraved throughout the handles in elegant Victorian style. The craftsmanship and thick gauge of these tongs make this an excellent example of Irish silver.

Based upon research, we are attributing the crest on the left depicting a dragon’s head erased to either the Banks family (with prominent member Sir John Banks of Golagh, Monaghan) or the Reeves family, a prominent clan throughout Burrane, Clare, Meath, Platten, Vostersberg. Athgarveen, Kildare and Cork. Research remains ongoing.

The crest on the right depicting an ostrich holding in the beak a horse-shoe is that of the Cooke family.

Price marked at $1250 AUD.

Measurements: 16cm length, 67.3 grams.

Excellent antique condition with minor wear overall commensurate with age, Marks well-struck.