Maritime Silver and Metal Work
Maritime silver can be divided into several categories, most notably that used aboard
ship and that with a nautical theme. More unusual maritime silver used for tablewares
include silver nefs - large silver models of ships mounted on wheels used
on dining tables. These were used as a display of wealth and similar maritime silver
pieces such as lighthouse salt shakers and galleon place card holders can be found.
A Victorian silver pepper modelled as a lighthouse. Birmingham 1871. Maker Henry
Manton.
Silver boatswain's whistles are, perhaps, the most commonplace item that would have
been used aboard ship by many of the ratings. Good scroll engraved examples of a silver
boatswain's whistle regularly sell in the £300-£400 price range.
Silver presentation salvers were often given by a ship's company to officers on
celebrated occasions. Engraved with the ship's details and dates, these silver salvers
are sought after by collectors, in particular, from ships that have been engaged
in well know actions.
A George VI rectangular cigarette box with engine-turned decoration, the interior
of the lid enamelled with maritime signal flags.
The popularity of producing everyday items in the form of nautical atrefacts can
be seen in such pieces as a silver inkwell made in the form of a ship's lamp. Miniature
ship's lamps as well as anchors, oars and ships cannon were also made in silver
as desk ornaments. Even cigarette cases were made in silver with a maritime
theme, having enamel signal flags inset to the case itself.
Many commemorative items have been produced from metal salvaged from shipwrecks
and decommissioned vessels. Once again pieces produced from the copper of HMS Foudroyant,
commemorating Admiral Nelson, are popular amongst collectors. These are often small
copper medallions or walking canes with copper mounted pommels, with a portrait
of the ship and another of Nelson to each side.
Many of the great naval engagements and victories of the 18th and 19th century were
commemorated by the production of a medallion. Once again, the more popular
of these relate to Admiral Nelson and his time aboard both HMS Foudroyant and HMS
Victory.
Specialists
Associated Department
Silver
Related Maritime Subjects