Robert Calderwood Irish Georgian Silver Sauce Boat, Dublin, c. 1751-66

An exquisite example of early Irish silver, this lovely sauce boat has a large bulbous body with a shaped rim enforced by cast and applied gadrooning with scrolling foliate elements. Lively scrolling elements are incorporated into the bold castings of the handle, feet and decorative strap work below the spout.

A crest of a rampant wolf is engraved above the front foot. The alternating use of plain surfaces and design make this piece very attractive and accentuate the bold baroque design of the piece. Calderwood was an important maker who sold to an elite clientele in mid-18th century Dublin. This sumptuous and very well made sauce boat would have been comfortable in the finest 18th century home.

Both the Hibernia and harp mark are reasonably clear; there is no date mark. Although the maker's mark was poorly struck (and somewhat rubbed), we are confident in our identification of Robert Calderwood as the maker and the date of c. 1751-66. It measures 6.5 to the top of the handle by 8.5 inches long, weighs 19.60 troy ounces and is in very good condition. (A very small crack in the edge has been expertly restored.)