Silver Tankard
Marked IC
Hallmarked London, 1680

During the 17th century, tankards were highly sought after as beer and ale were the primary alcoholic beverages. Tankards, along with cups, covers, flagons and tazzas, were typically displayed on sideboards in dining halls, where they glittered by candlelight in the evening. Drinks were poured by servants and kept on the sideboard until requested by diners, often accompanied by a toast to the host. Due to the elaborate presentation of food, such as cooked swans and decorated sheep and boar heads, the table had little room for displaying plateware.

This tankard is hallmarked with "IC" over a mullet in a lobed shield, along with the hallmarks for London silver from 1680-81. The initials "DG" and the date "1680" are engraved on the handle. Additionally, it bears the Arms of Horneby, possibly for Walter Horneby of Leicestershire, who donated a tankard dated 1683 to Emmanuel College, Cambridge.

The tankard features a deep border of repoussé acanthus leaves alternating with lotus leaves around its bottom. The S-scroll handle, made in two parts and soldered together to be hollow, is topped with intertwining dolphins on the thumbpiece. The stepped and flat-domed cover is chased with an inward spiral of acanthus leaves, adding to its aesthetic appeal. The tankard is in excellent condition, with the hallmarks located below the rim and the maker's mark also on the handle.

Charles II silver holds immense historical and artistic significance, epitomizing the opulence and grandeur of the Restoration era. Following the austere Commonwealth period, the return of Charles II in 1660 sparked a revival of luxurious craftsmanship. Silver items from this time, renowned for their intricate repoussé work and elaborate designs, symbolized the monarchy's restored splendor and the era's flourishing arts.

7 1/2“ high x 6" wide x 9" deep

Provenance:
Private Collection, London
M.S. Rau, New Orleans
Red McCombs Collection, Texas
M.S. Rau, New Orleans