Slades Antiques

Description

This set of antique dessert knives and forks was made by Birmingham maker John Gilbert. There are twelve forks and twelve knives, still retained within their original mahogany box. There are two levels in the box - the upper tray lifts out - and we believe there may originally have been a third level also which is now missing. The pieces are silver-plated, and each piece is marked with silver-plate and maker's marks. They have lovely shaped mother of pearl handles. We would estimate them to date from the second half of the nineteenth century.

Condition: Overall in good condition with some wear consistent with age and use. The forks and knife blades have some surface scratching and some tarnishing. The mother of pearl handles have some very minor chipping in places and some natural flaws and blemishes as might be expected. As is mentioned above there may originally have been a third layer in the box (so another six knives and forks) which is now missing. The mahogany fitted case has some wear and damage. It has some quite heavy scratching, denting and wear and is missing its escutcheon and key. The outer lining of the base is lifting and the base is loose in one corner. There is an old repair to one of the back corner joints. The fitted interior of the case has some damage and is lifting in places.

The approx. measurements are as follows:
Fork - 17.5cm long
Knife - 21.5cm long
Box - 28cm by 25.5cm, 6.5cm high.
Further images are available. Please don't hesitate to contact us if you have any queries. Viewing is welcome, but please contact us before travelling as we are only open by appointment.

We can arrange delivery of both smaller items and furniture - please contact us for details and a quote. Customers are also welcome to use their own couriers if preferred.

Payment can be made by PayPal, bank transfer, cheque [UK only], and cash on collection.