Help with the armorial on a 1746 salver

[rat-tail]

Hi All

I have this lovely and quite monumental silver salver, assayed in London 1748, and attributed - hopefully correctly - to William Hunter. I would be interested if the crest can reveal anything about its original owner. And anything else on the style of the engraving and decoration. Salver measures 42cm and weighs over 2kg. I have shown the marks should anyone be interested. All thoughts welcomed
Regards Frank

[dognose]

Hi Frank,

I believe you are reading the maker's mark upside down. I make that Hugh Mills (Grimwade 1033). The mark is a very rare one, he registered in February 1746 and died very soon after.

See: http://www.925-1000.com/dlLondon6.html#M

See also: viewtopic.php?f=74&t=28072&p=68664

Trev.

[rat-tail]

Hi Trev
Many thanks - it's a much better match. Not sure how I missed it.

Regards Frank

[AG2012]

Hand engraved as expected - very nice and skilled work.
Family crest of the original owner? Early 18th century silver was too often ``embellished`` during Victorian period.De gustibus non est disputandum.
Worth searching for;start with the hand.Not an easy task,though.Good luck.

[dognose]

Indeed, the hand I'm sure will be a big clue. Most heraldic hands are right-handed, but unusually this one is left-handed.

Trev.