Elaborate SP Hollow-ware Hallmark Search

[tastevin]

Hi all,

I came accross these very fancy hollow ware/flatware knives and forks. Engraved blades and tines, very ornate. Handles are light and feel hollow. I believe they are British but am not sure.

The first hallmark looks like a lower case "r" or a hatchet. Then HBS and a Crown with EP below, which I believe was not allowed in Britian after 1885.






As always, much gratitude for your expertise!

[tastevin]

I should add I believe they are "Fish Knives".

[silvermakersmarks]

The manufacturer's mark is actually THB - Thomas Henry Blake - and S for Sheffield. Blake was active 1887 until 1911. I believe that the crown on plated wares was outlawed a little later than you quote, during the 1890s, so that dates your fish knives and forks to c1890.

Phil