THE MAXWELL SHIPWRIGHT FAMILY SILVER TOBACCO BOX, 1698

of oval form with the cover engraved with the contemporary arms of the Shipwrights' Company, interior and underside of base with inscriptions for previous Maxwell family owners; Peter Maxwell / 1698 / Robt son of the above Peter Maxwell ob 1746 / ae 46 / Willm son of Rob Maxwell ob 18th April 1797 / ae 67 / Robt son of Wm Maxwell / ob 6 March 1827 ae 71 and inside: Robt Curtis, son of Robt Maxwel, London hallmarks, possibly for William South, 1698 -- 3½in. (9cm.) long, 126g.

The Worshipful Company of Shipwrights, purchased from a fund raised in memory of Hobart H. de C Moore, Prime Warden 1979-1980.

This is believed to be the oldest known representation of the Company arms on silver. The silver historian Arthur Grimwade records a William South gaining his freedom in 1670, his Britannia standard mark (no. 2598) registered for a smallworker. His maker's mark of WS in a heart appears in Jackson's Hallmarks.

Condition Report

patched repair over old split and small loss to wall of box and another small split stablised opposite - photo's refer.

We are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of this property. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Charles Miller Ltd is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD “AS IS” IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE.