James Fray Irish Silver Classical/ Egyptian Cream Jug, Dublin, c. 1838/39

This wonderful and unusual cream jug is unlike any other piece of Irish silver we have seen. Featuring classical chased decoration, the spout and rim are based on a lotus blossom and the handle on a papyrus stem. The body has a chased frieze of classically clad figures, one, a male, is receiving flaming(?) libations (?) from two female figures, one with wings. Above this frieze is a band of Greek key decoration, and below at the foot is a band of Vitruvian scrolls. Above and below the handle join, grows abstracted classical foliage.

James Fray was an important silversmith working in Dublin from 1813 to 1842. His work can be found in the collection of the National Museum of Ireland.

This jug measures 4.25 inches high and is fully marked underneath. It weighs 5.95 troy ounces and is in very good antique condition.