These are quite possibly the best set of forks we've ever had. They are extremely rare, large (8.25 inches) dinner or 'banquet' size forks in one of the most desirable patterns. Not the everyday 'Kings' pattern, but the early, rare form. Made of very heavy gauge silver, the set weighs 34 troy ounces, or nearly 3 ounces each. Each is crested with a hairy paw holding a torch.
Typical of early American examples of this pattern, these forks are single struck, featuring a bold shell at the end. (In this respect they are similar to examples from Scotland, William Thompson's place of birth and possible training. See Debbie Waters in Elegant Plate, pp. 408-9) About one third down the handle, is an acanthus (or possibly honeysuckle) inspired decoration. The back heel of the forks are ornamented with a shell.
The kings pattern is first found in France during the mid eighteenth century. Occasional pieces were made in England c. 1770, but it is not until the 1810's that this pattern becomes popular in Britain. (A service is recorded in use at Windsor Palace in 1808.) Here in America, this pattern does not become popular until about 1820, when trade resumes after the war of 1812.
William Thompson was an important New York City maker working from about 1810. His shop was taken over by his son James after his death in 1833, and later his son William ran the shop until he was bought out by Zalmon Bostwick in 1845. (See Debbie Waters in Elegant Plate, pp. 408-9). His work is represented in many museum collections today including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Winterthur, etc.
Condition: These forks are in very good antique condition, showing only light wear to the pattern and tip of the tines. One fork is matched - not marked by Thompson, it is also coin silver marked by 'G(eorge). F. Reeve', a New York City jeweller, working in the late 1840's on Greenwich St.
Our Price: SOLD
Item code: F110
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