A Victorian Silver Pitcher With Cover, Samuel Samuel Smily Goldsmiths Alliance, London, 1868

Description
A Victorian sterling silver pitcher with cover, silver-gilt interior, Samuel Smily Goldsmiths Alliance, London, 1868.
This splendid lidded pitcher has an unusual form, crafted in thick gauge silver. It features smooth surfaces highlighted by bold decorative elements with floral and geometric motifs, as well as cartouches on both sides of the body. The hinged lid has a domed surface with decorations that echo the theme of the pitcher’s body. The handle showcases cast, chiseled, and applied ornaments. It has a short spout and a circular base. The interior is lined with vermeil silver.

Sterling Silver with 5 Hallmarks:
The Maker’s Mark: Samuel Smily Goldsmiths Alliance
The Lion Passant: The Mark that indicates Sterling Silver
Leopard’s Head Crowned: City of London
The Date Letter: 1868
Duty mark: Head Queen Victoria

Dimensions
HxLxD 13,19in x 10,24in x 8,07in

Weight
75,56oz

Provenience
Private collection

Condition
Slight signs of age and superficial scratches. The five hallmarks are present on the side of the pitcher. At the base of the pitcher is the mark "Goldsmiths Alliance Limited, Cornhill, London." At the base of the lid are the hallmarks of the manufacturer's logo, the passant lion, and the date letter for the year.