Antique 1837 Charles Fox Sterling Silver Cream Jug, Gilt Interior, High-Relief Floral Decoration, London Hallmarks

A remarkable piece of London silver created at the moment of a royal transition.

This magnificent antique cream or milk jug was made in London in 1837 by the celebrated silversmith Charles Fox, a distinguished name within the renowned Fox family of silversmiths.

Handcrafted in sterling silver, the jug features a richly gilded interior whose warm golden tone contrasts beautifully with the softly aged silver exterior. Its substantial weight, elegant proportions and exceptionally detailed decoration reflect the quality associated with fine nineteenth-century London silver.

The body is lavishly ornamented with high-relief flowers, scrolling foliage and finely chased textures. Some of the most prominent floral elements appear to have been individually formed and applied to the body, creating an unusually sculptural sense of depth. Light moves across the raised decoration, revealing intricate variations of texture and shadow.

The undulating rim flows naturally into a broad, elegantly shaped pouring lip. A tall scrolling handle decorated with floral and foliate details complements the design, while the substantial cast pedestal foot is richly modelled with further flowers and scrolling leaves. Weighing approximately 330 grams, the jug feels reassuringly solid and beautifully balanced in the hand.

Of particular historical interest are its London hallmarks from 1837. According to specialist British hallmark references, the duty mark still bears the portrait of King William IV and corresponds to the brief period between 29 May and 20 June 1837—an extraordinary window of approximately 23 days immediately preceding the accession of Queen Victoria.

This rare hallmark configuration places the jug at a defining moment in British history, when the reign of William IV was drawing to a close and the Victorian era was about to begin.

More than a functional piece of silverware, this is an exceptional collector’s object combining an important London maker, elaborate craftsmanship, a rare royal duty mark and a compelling historical story.

Details

* Maker: Charles Fox
* Date: 1837
* Origin: London, England
* Period: Late Georgian / William IV
* Material: Sterling silver
* Interior: Gilded
* Decoration: High-relief flowers and scrolling foliage
* Techniques: Chasing, repoussé-style relief and applied decoration
* Base: Substantial cast floral and foliate pedestal foot
* Height: Approximately 16 cm
* Weight: Approximately 330 g
* Hallmarks: London assay marks with the William IV duty mark

Condition

The jug is in excellent antique condition, with its structure and decorative details beautifully preserved.

The silver retains a warm, natural patina, together with light surface marks and signs of age consistent with an object made in 1837. These are part of its history and antique character. Please examine all photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the description.

Notes

Antique silver is handmade and may display minor irregularities, surface marks and variations resulting from traditional craftsmanship and nearly two centuries of age. These characteristics should not be considered faults.

Shipping

【📦 Worldwide shipping from London, UK】

The jug will be carefully and securely packaged for delivery. International buyers are responsible for checking any customs requirements or import regulations applicable in their country.

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