This is a very nice example of English Victorian Silver in the Greco-Roman style, as well as a fascinating piece of police memorabilia. The pieces are by Martin, Hall & Co (Richard Martin & Ebenezer Hall) in London, England. The marks date the four sterling pieces to 1874. The tray is silver plate, and was made to match the sterling pieces. The tray is inscribed with a presentation inscription to William Hodge, Esquire.
Hodge's monogram is present on each sterling piece. The pieces are very masculine in style. The lids are topped with Spartan style military helmets, and the body of each decorated with Grecian style scenes reminiscent of ancient red on black (or vise versa) pottery. The tray is decorated in an identical style, and inscribed with the following..
Along with a Silver Tea & Coffee Service. By the Probost Magistrates, Town Council and other Gentlemen. In testimony of their appreciation of the long, valuable & faithful services gratuitously performed by him.
AS TREASURER TO THE COMMISSIONERS OF POLICE. And of their esteem for him as a private Gentleman. The pieces are in good vintage condition, with wear to each associated with their age and use. The only major issue is an old repair to the arm of the tea pot (see photos), which was not done very well. The repair is quite old, so the fact that it is still holding is a sign that though it is not pretty (nor perfectly sturdy), it has done its job.The coffee pot is also missing a pin one one side of its handle (also in photos), but the arm is still firmly attached. Please be sure to view all of the photographs for a full view of each piece. The pieces included in this set are the following.. One Silver Plated Presentation Tray with Handles - 28.6" x 19" wide. One Sterling Teapot with Lid - 10" tall, 9.5" x 6.25 wide.
One Sterling Coffee Pot with Lid - 13" tall, 6" x 5 wide. One Creamer - 8" tall, 4" x 3.5 wide.One Open Sugar Bowl - 7.6" tall, 6.4" x 5.25 wide. The item "Greco-Roman Style English Sterling Tea Set with Tray by Martin, Hall & Co. Ca 1874" is in sale since Thursday, August 18, 2016. This item is in the category "Antiques\Silver\Sterling Silver (.
925)\Tea/Coffee Pots & Sets". The seller is "silverqueeninc" and is located in Largo, Florida. This item can be shipped to United States.