I came across an article on thimbles in an old edition of Country Life, part of which is reproduced below:
One of the better-known silversmiths to have made thimbles during the latter part of the 18th century, was Hester Bateman who was active between 1760 and 1790 approximately, and whose mark is occasionally found. An unusual feature is that instead of being stamped, her mark was incorporated into the design etched on the knurling wheels used to decorate the borders of thimbles. This suggests that she made thimbles in some quantities.
I don't recall ever having seen a thimble made by Hester Bateman and considering that they were below the weight for compulsory hallmarking and her mark incorporated into the design, I wonder how many of these pieces go un-noticed.
Has anyone seen, or have an example of these thimbles?
Trev.
.