Arts & Crafts Sterling Silver Centrepiece by William Comyns & Sons

This unusual sterling silver centrepiece could be described as several things - a comport, a jardiniere or simply a footed bowl. Crafted by London silversmith William Comyns & Sons the piece has been assayed for manufacture in 1901, which is both the tail end of the Victorian period, but also the beginning of the Edwardian era. The centrepiece could be described as being in the Glasgow style, with reference most notably to the watercolours and silvered panels of Margaret Macdonald Mackintosh and Charles Rennie Mackintosh from 1899-1901. To the centre front of the piece is the monogram 'CH' or 'CJC' depending on how the engraving is interpreted. Entirely hand-wrought the piece features various sections of fine hand hammering which adds a secondary texture to the otherwise polished silver finish. The centrepiece is in lovely condition with minimal wear commensurate with age and use. A beautiful example of English Arts & Crafts silversmithing which if filled with stone fruit or festive decorations would leave a lasting impression.

Marked - London sterling hallmarks for 1901 & 'W.C' for William Comyns & Sons

Measures - 20cm D x 13.5cm H

Total weight of piece - 883 grams

Literature - Roger Billcliffe Charles Rennie and the Art of the Four p128-137.(Images attached)