Sterling silver sugar tongs with oval-shaped tips, the arms engraved with brightwork design and…

Images(5)

A view of the opposite side of the tongs.

A view of the maker's mark stamped on the interior of the arm.

A view of the hallmark stamped on the interior of the arm.

Sugar Tongs

Maker Hester Bateman ((active 1761–1790))

Date1780

Mediumsterling silver

Dimensions5 1/2 inches (14 cm)

MarkingsMaker's mark stamped on the arm interior: HB; Hallmark stamped on the arm interior: lion passant

Credit LineGift of Frank A. Rizza, M.D. and family.

Object number2012.15.108

On View

Not on view

CopyrightThe images and text contained on this page are owned by Telfair Museums or used by the Museum with permission from the owners. Unauthorized reproduction, transmission or display of these materials is prohibited with the exception of items deemed “fair use” as defined by U.S. and international copyright laws.Label TextThese sugar tongs are decorated with brightwork engraving on the arms, shoulder, and oval grippers. Hester Bateman, one of only a small number of women silversmiths in Britain in the 18th century, made these sterling silver sugar tongs. Their pointed-oval tips and delicate engraved patterns reflect the taste for light, geometric ornament in the late 18th century. After the death of her husband John in 1760, Hester Bateman successfully registered her own mark and operated the family silver firm for thirty years. She was succeeded in turn by her sons Jonathan and Peter, daughter-in-law Ann, grandson William, and great-grandson William II, who registered the last mark of the family in 1843.

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