posted 05-26-2005 05:54 AM            

I recently bought these 2 tablespoons online. As I now own them, I was wondering if anyone had any information on the marks. I have decided to focus my collection on pieces with un-ascribed and unidentified marks as they are far more interesting to research. I have found a similar mark in Jackson's un-ascribed Scottish provincial marks section, marks found on a pepper caster circa 1816. The marks on my pieces are much the same without a date. The small mark to the far left looks like a letter from the greek alphabet. The makers mark is "F.D". They have large bowls and are quite heavy. Any information gratefully received.

posted 05-26-2005 12:47 PM            

His alphabetical list contains over 1300 marks, unfortunately only 33 of which are illustrated. There is no FD listed (nor an ED if it could be that). Odd that he would have not have included the Jackson reference to this mark, unless he had reason to reject it. I used to think Jackson's Scottish section in the 3rd edition was pretty complete (it had most of the marks I have encountered), but now I see it is only a sampling, and far from comprehensive.

posted 05-26-2005 02:21 PM            

Thanks for the help. I do have Mr Turner's book and I emailed him earlier today with a photograph of the mark and he identified it as Indian Colonial Silver, made by Francis Dormieux of Calcutta Serampore c.1818 in Wynyard Wilkinson's book on colonial silver. It's expensive (only 1000 copies) but I'll try and track it down. So adelapt was spot on. I bought them as being provincial and obviously Jackson's needs a good updating, but I am pleased I purchased them as they will make an interesting addition to my collection.

posted 05-26-2005 02:39 PM            

This thread should be OK where it is now. It does not have to be moved, unless you want it somewhere else.