Silver Sugar Bowl

This sterling silver sugar bowl, crafted by John Turton & Co., is hallmarked in Sheffield and dates back to circa 1928. The piece is an elegant example of early 20th-century silverware, featuring a classic design that embodies the craftsmanship of its era. The bowl's smooth, reflective surface and graceful curves are complemented by its integrated sprung tongs, which exhibit both functionality and style. This item is a quintessential piece that reflects the sophistication of English silverware during this period.

Condition Report

The sterling silver sugar bowl is in very good condition, indicative of careful preservation over the years. It shows minimal signs of age and wear, which is commendable for a piece crafted in the late 1920s. The hallmark remains clear, providing assurance of its authenticity and origin. The sprung tongs are fully functional, and the silver retains a bright sheen, requiring only routine polishing to maintain its lustre. This condition makes it a desirable addition for collectors and connoisseurs of antique silverware.

Dimensions

Weight: 199gm, Height: 10.3cm, Width: 11cm.

A Practical Addition to the Tea Table

This sugar bowl was originally intended as a practical yet stylish addition to a traditional tea service. Its purpose was to hold sugar cubes, with the sprung tongs allowing for easy serving. This function was essential for tea gatherings, which were a significant social ritual in the early 20th century. The design of the tongs, integrated seamlessly into the bowl, reflects the practicality and attention to detail that was prized in domestic settings of the time.

Classic English Silverware Design

The design of this sugar bowl is a fine representation of English silverware from the late 1920s. It features clean lines and a polished finish that are hallmarks of the period's aesthetic preferences. The understated elegance and practicality of the bowl reflect the broader trends in English decorative arts post-World War I, which favoured refined simplicity and functional beauty. This piece exemplifies the merging of utility and elegance that characterised the period's design ethos.

Crafted with Sterling Silver Expertise

The sugar bowl was meticulously crafted using sterling silver, a standard for quality and durability in metalwork. The process involved shaping the silver into the desired form, followed by meticulous polishing to achieve a high shine. The hallmarking process, conducted in Sheffield, further attests to the piece's authenticity and quality. The inclusion of sprung tongs showcases the silversmith's ability to blend functionality with elegance, a testament to the skill and attention to detail that went into its creation.

Produced by John Turton & Co.

John Turton & Co. was known for its high-quality silverware, with a reputation for craftsmanship that appealed to discerning customers. Operating out of Sheffield, a city renowned for its metalwork, the company produced a range of domestic silver items during the early 20th century. This sugar bowl is representative of their commitment to combining functionality with aesthetic appeal, a testament to the company's skilled artisans and their attention to detail in each piece.

Collected by Enthusiasts of English Silverware

This sterling silver sugar bowl is a sought-after item for collectors of English silverware, valued for its historical significance and craftsmanship. Pieces from the early 20th century, especially those with clear provenance such as this one, are particularly prized. Collectors appreciate the combination of elegance and practicality, as well as the assurance of quality that comes with a hallmark. As an exemplar of John Turton & Co.'s work, it holds a special place in the history of English silversmithing and remains desirable for both its beauty and its connection to a bygone era.