Royal Goldsmiths Silver Helmet Cream Jug, 1787

This is a fabulous quality Georgian silver helmet cream jug made by the Royal Goldsmiths, Wakelin & Taylor.

This good-sized, pitcher-style jug stands on a square, pedestal foot and has a plain helmet-shaped body with long, elegant handle. The front of the main body is superbly engraved with a "MMBG" cipher that is formed from looping, floral scrolls - the quality of engraving indicating a high quality piece; helmet-style cream jugs can vary enormously in quality, this example is certainly towards the top end of the spectrum.

This cream jug remains in excellent condition throughout retaining its original gilt interior. The full set of hallmarks are located under the foot and include a clear I.W/I.T maker's mark with the Prince of Wales feathers' surmount.

The partnership of John Wakelin and William Taylor was a continuation of the firm initially founded by George Wickes during the reign of King George I and later evolving in to Garrard and Company through the 19th and 20th centuries. Throughout these periods, the workshop in Panton Street maintained its "by appointment" status to various members of the British Royal family and items bearing the marks of any of these makers is a sure sign of high quality.