Strange exuberant edwardian dish

[fatso]

I have in my possession this strange utensil, hallmarked in Sheffield 1901, that is at the beginning of Edwardian era. It looks as if the silversmith has been
under the influence of some psychotrophic substance: ugly mascarons, baroque legs, rough bottom and rich gilding inside not forgetting the crazily
hammered irregular sides to this vessel.
What was it for? My wife thinks that it might have been used in some sort
of black mass or other sectarian rites.

http://i269.photobucket.com/albums/jj51 ... lSmall.jpg
(admin photo edit - image too large - insert as link only - see Posting Requirements)
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[dognose]

Hi Fatso,

Who is the maker of this piece?

Regards Trev.
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[fatso]

I don't know but there is a maltese cross and a star next to his name
so, maybe, he was certifiable by his shrink?

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[dognose]

Hi Fatso,

Joseph Rodgers, a very large manufacturing company with the factory in Sheffield and showrooms in London. Their Trademark, the Maltese Cross and Star is supposed to be the first Trademark registered in Great Britain, although I've heard the same claim made by the brewers Bass and their Red Triangle.

Regards Trev.
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[fatso]

Many thanks, dognose for your informative reply.
Perhaps an apprentice piece or just visionary? That
rough bottom on the inside does resemble to me
a lunar landscape.
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[admin]

Rodgers was an immensely successful firm, they knew not to ignore changing fashions so would have catered to the taste for hammered goods at this time period. Taking a Georgian form and hammering it near to death may not have been the best choice, but probably filled a niche for those wanting to be stylish, but uncomfortable with newfangled forms.

Regards, Tom
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