posted 08-02-2004 08:57 AM            

I have a serving piece that came from a Louisiana auction. It has a cover, tray insert for water and the base. It is rather ornate and has a place for a family crest but there is none. Rope shaped silver design is in edge and handle parts. The top piece, which has the place for a coat of arms, also looks engraved with design that includes a leaf pattern.

The only mark I see, aside from numbers that signify the pieces belong together, is a mark which has four arrows (two sets of them that criss cross each other). On the bottom bowl piece, in addition to the arrow mark there is also the letter "J" stamped.

I have Rainwater's silver guide and the only maker which I can come up with is Wm Hutton, although the mark which is show in the book has 3 arrows which criss cross another set of three arrows and the piece I have has sets of 4 arrows.

I am only recently educating myself on the subject of silver, although I have been collecting silver plated serving pieces for a few years now.

I appreciate any assistance or advice that someone can offer.

let's see if I can add a pic here

posted 08-02-2004 10:31 AM            

I had just read an article about dating the early sheffield plate pieces and the piece I have seems to have many of the required "suspects:" no/few marks, the rope which would cover the seams, and in an area that does have a seam I can get my fingernail into it.

I think I need more reference books! After the rainwater one, any suggestions as to my next purchase? Maybe one that offers more detail on English Makers?

thx mucho!

suz

Just wanted to add that I have spent the AM reseaching this lead and I do think you have put me on to something! Perhaps the "J" mark refers to James. I did find reference to them using the 8 arrow mark on a few sites.

Thanks again O great one!!!