What-is-it question LXXXIII.

[2209patrick]

This item was made by Peter, Ann & William Bateman.
It might be a one-of-a-kind piece in silver.

Marked for the year 1804. It is 2.25 inches (5.7 cm.) long.
Engraved with the arms of Colchester.

What was the purpose of this piece.



Pat.
.

[dognose]

Hi Pat,

I'll confess to having an advantage on this one, having worked many years in Colchester.
The Colchester Oyster Feast is annual event that has been celibrated for hundreds of years with various dignitaries and celebrities invited as guests.
I suspect this was made as a special serving piece for the event.

Regards Trev.
.

[2209patrick]

Hello Trev.

Yes, this piece is directly related to the Colchester oysters.
My book refers to it as an "oyster gauge". "No oyster offered for sale from the Colchester beds was to be of a smaller size than this official gauge."

Pat.
.

[dognose]

Hi Pat,

I came across this old badge the other day and was reminded of your post.



It even comes complete with pseudo marks!

Regards Trev.

[2209patrick]

Hi Trev.

That's interesting. Many people must find these things and have no idea what they represent.
The Colchester Oyster Feast must be a big event.

Pat.
.