Nanny Whistle
Date1841
Mediumsterling silver
Dimensions4 inches (10.2 cm)
MarkingsMaker and date marks on the side: T&P [in oval]; S
Credit LineGift of Frank A. Rizza, M.D. and family.
Object number2012.15.123
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 TextNanny whistles were worn in Victorian times to call children in from play. The whistles also served as rattles with dangling bells, and the coral handles worked as teethers. The donor of this one hunted for a complete nanny whistle for their collection for ten years until finding this one "with all the bells and whistles." This nanny whistle takes a curving form, and it is elaborately ornamented with engraved and repousse scrollwork and flowers. This ornate surface treatment extends to the tiny bells, which each have branches of foliage along their tops.
The partnership of silversmiths John Taylor and John Perry registered their mark in 1829 in Birmingham, England, as successors to Joseph Taylor.
