George Wickes Square Salver, 1729

This is a rare piece of George II silver made by one of the most important of English silversmiths. This square salver is simple in form and stands on 4 sturdy feet. The centre is engraved with late 18th century "MGB" initials in script. It is in good condition with just a couple of small dings to the flat surface. The hallmarks are crisp with a good example of the distinctive "GW" makers mark.

George Wickes was one of the most important silversmiths of the 18th century. He entered his first marks in 1722, so this salver is a particularly early piece by him. George Wickes held a Royal warrant for supplying Frederick Prince of Wales with his silverware. George Wickes worked from Panton Street and began a long line of important silversmiths passing on the business from master to apprentice using the same premises, each one holding a Royal Warrant. By the 19th century the business became Garrard & Co. and continues in this guise today. The ledgers of the businesses have survived and it can be seen that amongst Wickes' clientele were many distinguished people including a good number of dukes, earls, admirals, bishops and other knights of the realm.