Code: FA0496
Pretty and unusual pair of Georgian silver sugar tongs with a steel spring loaded pivot hinge, c.1775. The flattened arms have fine bright cut engraved decoration and end in ornate rounded grips with plain teardrop centre and engraved detail. Subtle initials engraved on the shoulders below the hinge.
Hallmarked with the lion passant on both arms and makers initials WC likely for William Cattell. No date letter but these unusual spring loaded tongs were only made for a short period between c.1765-c.1780.
They measure 5 1/2" ( 14cm) long and weigh 34g/1.1ozt.
Condition is very good with just light surface wear, minimal to the engraved decoration, a few pin-pricks to the hinge discs. When the grips meet they are approximately 1mm out of perfect alignment. The loading in the spring still works perfectly well.
