Expert: Martin G Roberts - 8/19/2007

Question
Dear Sir,

I have a sugarpot / bowl (no lid) and a creamer that I love to see for there stylishness. The bottom of each has a very stylish trim with 4/5 circels above each other that becomes widener to the bottom. The sugarbowl has also two stylish ears.

It looks like the era of arts and crafts, but were so stylish that they also could from the 1920's / 1930's.

It looks silverplated, because of the " shine", but .....

I was told that it could be from the 1880-190's and designed by / or inspired by Dresser.

The JD&S is J. Dixon and Sons from Sheffield. Thats all what I am sure about.

The signs and numbers on both bottoms are:

First row: (Vertical) SP or EP  (Horizontal)JD&S  (Sort of)Trumpet/flag/key

Second row: D1815

Third row: HARDSOLDERD

Fourth row: MADE IN ENGLAND

Thereunder in the middle: (Not in a frame or so) F

I hope you could solve some questions.

Thank you from the Netherlands, Wim


Answer
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Well, that is all correct. EP = electroplate (i.e. silver plated). Your dates are right, except that it will be 1920s rather than 1890s, as "made in england" was not used until the later period.

Dresser influence: possible, but unlikely, though without sight of the piece, I cannot offer a firm opinion.

Dixon's were a prolific firm, and their silverplate of this period is very common.

Martin
www.antique-metalware.co.uk