Hester Bateman Bead Silver Sugar Tongs, c.1780

This handsome pair of Georgian silver sugar tongs can be readily dated from the working period of Hester Bateman (c1770 to 1790), the omission of the duty mark (must be pre-1784) and the bead edging (fashionable circa 1775-1785). 

They are an exquisite example of her work with an elegant, wavy shape and the beading even goes around the circular cups. The condition is fabulous with crisp decoration, no personalised engravings (nor erasures), clear "HB" makers mark and lion passant mark and a lovely antique patina.