Hester Bateman Silver Cream Jug, 1785

Hester Bateman is known as the "Queen of English Silversmiths" and this helmet-shaped silver cream jug is typical of her elegant designs.

Standing on a square, pedestal foot, this cream jug has a looping handle and is decorated around the foot and top rim with beading that was highly fashionable in the 1780's. A very stylish, intertwined "KC" in script is engraved to the front.

The full set of hallmarks are spread around the corners to the underside of the base. They include a clear "HB" in script maker's mark, plus the incuse duty mark that was only used for 18 months from December 1784 to May 1785. The condition is superb with neither damage nor repair and a good, antique patina.