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Sugar Tongs

Maker Samuel Godbehere (British)

Date1784 - 1785

Mediumsterling silver

Dimensions5 1/2 inches (14 cm)

MarkingsMaker's mark on the arm interior: SG [in rectangle]

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

Object number2012.15.111

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 sterling silver sugar tongs have bright cut floral decoration and acorn tips. Sugar tongs were first introduced during the second quarter of the eighteenth century when sugar became enormously popular. By the end of that century and into the next, tongs were cut from sheet silver and usually decorated with bright-cut engraving or patterns such as this one which echoed flatware for the dining table. The tapering arms often ended in round, oval, shell, eagle claw, or acorn tips. London silversmith Samuel Godbehere entered his first mark as a plateworker in 1784. He worked in various partnerships with Edward Wigan 1786-1792 as 'Godbehere, Wigan and Co', with Wigan and James Bult as 'S Godbehere & Co' 1800-1818, with Bult 1818-1819.

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