An exceptional, fine and impressive antique William III English Britannia standard silver tazza; part of our dining silverware collection

This exceptional antique William III English Britannia* standard silver tazza has a plain circular form onto a cylindrical spreading foot.

The surface of the tazza is embellished with a contemporary bright cut engraved coat of arms displaying on a chief a demi-lion of the first armed and langued**; the lower portion of the coat of arms bears the centre punch mark, an indication that the details have not been erased.

The rim of this Britannia silver tazza is encircled with an impressive embossed gadroon decorated border.

The original foot is embellished with further embossed gadroon decoration.

This antique tazza has a fine colour and patination***.

The underside of the foot is struck with part hallmarks, as to be expected.

Such period examples in this exceptional condition are becoming increasingly scarce to the market.

* Britannia Silver - The Britannia silver standard of 958 (95.84% of fine silver), denoted by the icon of the seated Britannia holding an oval shield, was introduced by William III in 1697. This was to indicate the slightly higher standard of silver from sterling silver standard of 925 (92.5% of fine silver).

** This coat of arms pertains to the family Weldon; there is a strong probability these arms relate to those hailing from the County of Kent.Read this items heraldic identification report.

*** Patination or Patina is a subtle colouration or tarnish which forms on the surface of some metals, produced by oxidation or other chemical processes. A good patina proffers an aesthetically pleasing look.

This antique tazza is an exceptional gauge of silver, exceptional quality and in exceptional condition, for its type.

Full Britannia hallmarks to the surface of the tazza and part hallmarks to the underside of the foot are all very clear, in keeping with age.

Reflections inphotographs may detract from the true representation of this example of antique silverware.

Diameter 21cm/8.3"

Diameter of foot 9.5cm/3.7"

Height 5.7cm/2.2"

13.1 troy ounces/407g

Date: 1697

Origin: London, England

Maker: Nathaniel Underwood