Oil & Vinegar Stand, 1756 Samuel Wood

Samuel Wood was the premier specialist for making silver cruet items in the mid-18th century. Indeed the Wood family had developed through father and son (master and apprentice) relationships since Edward Wood entered his mark in 1720 as specialists in the field. Primarily their output comprised cauldron salts and casters of all sizes, but they also made cruet frames and in this instance an oil and vinegar stand. Warwick cruets were another speciality and this frame takes the same form of a scaled down version of these famous condiment holders.

The silver frame has been made from a good gauge of silver and consequently has a strong solid feel in the hand. It stanmds on four sturdy feet and has a carrying handle to the centre. The glass decanters are original and carry well-made silver mounts with hinged covers. As was often the case with 18th century glass mounts, the tops do not bear any hallmarks. The condition is first rate; Georgian glass cruets rarely survive in good order, but miraculously these are fine with no damage and have an all over facetted cut. The frame bears an engraved crest (a little tired) to the cartouche and matching crests to the necks of the decanters. A fine example of a George II period oil and vinegar stand.