1867 Victorian Sterling Silver-Gilt Christening Set by Henry Holland, London – Cup, Knife, Fork and Spoon in Original Case

A beautifully preserved Victorian sterling silver-gilt christening set, made in London in 1867 by the celebrated silversmith Henry Holland.

Presented in its original fitted case, the set comprises a christening cup together with a matching knife, fork and spoon. Every piece bears London hallmarks for the same year and the same maker, confirming that the set was created as a complete presentation suite. None of the pieces is engraved with a name or personal inscription.

The cup is particularly impressive. Its richly gilded body is decorated on both sides with separately formed and applied figural relief panels depicting scenes of rural family life. One side portrays a mother holding her baby beside figures engaged in country work; the other presents a further domestic scene filled with finely modelled figures and naturalistic detail.

The surrounding surface is ornamented with elegant scrolling foliage and floral motifs, creating a striking contrast between the warm gilding and the silver decoration. The sculptural figures, delicate clothing folds, facial features and pastoral details demonstrate the high standard of Victorian silver craftsmanship.

The matching knife, fork and spoon are decorated with complementary engraved and applied designs, bordered by delicate beaded edges. Their restrained ornament allows them to harmonise beautifully with the more elaborate cup.

The set remains in its original fitted presentation case, lined with deep royal-blue velvet and cream silk. It appears to have seen remarkably little use and retains an exceptional sense of completeness. Such sets were traditionally presented to mark the birth or christening of a child and were intended to become treasured family heirlooms.

Details

* Date: 1867
* Period: Victorian
* Origin: London, England
* Maker: Henry Holland
* Material: Sterling silver
* Finish: Silver-gilt
* Set includes: Christening cup, knife, fork and spoon
* Cup height: Approximately 10cm
* Cup rim diameter: Approximately 7.5cm
* Cup weight: Approximately 237g
* Knife length: Approximately 19.5cm
* Total silver weight: Approximately 354g
* Hallmarks: Full London hallmarks for 1867
* Presentation: Original fitted case
* Engraving: No personal inscription or monogram

Condition

Excellent antique condition, with remarkably little evidence of use. The gilding remains rich and attractive, while the applied relief scenes and decorative details are crisp and well preserved. The original fitted case shows light age-related wear consistent with its history. Please study the photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the condition description.

Why You’ll Love It

A rare and highly decorative Victorian christening set combining exceptional craftsmanship, beautifully modelled rural family scenes and its original presentation case. Complete, unpersonalised examples by a respected London silversmith are increasingly difficult to find.

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