George Sharp Antique Sterling Silver Creamer and Sugar, Philadelphia, c. 1871

Stunning repoussé chased and engraved wreaths decorate both sides of the urn-shaped creamer and covered sugar bowl. Tied with a bow at the bottom, the wreaths spread upwards with various spreading leaves and flowers bordering the cartouche which are engraved on one side 'HJL.' The flat-sided handles are bordered with thin, chased, line decoration. Slightly domed covers are topped with lovely teardrop finials which reflect nicely off their surroundings.

These wonderful pieces are marked underneath with George Sharp's trademark and by the Philadelphia retailer 'ROBBINS, CLARK & BIDDLE.' Robbins, Clark & Biddle (1871-75, Clark left in 1875) were competitors to Bailey & Co. with whom they merged in 1878 creating Bailey, Banks & Biddle. (1) The creamer and sugar measure 6.5 and 7.5 inches tall respectively, weigh a combined 27.80 troy ounces, and are in excellent antique condition.

Endnote:

1. Beatrice Garvin and David Barquist, American Silver in the Philadelphia Museum of Art: Volume 1, (New London: Yale University Press & The Philadelphia Museum of Art, 2018), pp. 265-66.