Pair of Antique Sterling Silver-Gilt Pedestal Dishes by Crichton Brothers, London 1910 & 1911 — Roman Emperor Medallions

An exceptional pair of English sterling silver-gilt pedestal dishes, made in London in 1910 and 1911 by Crichton Brothers, under Lionel Alfred Crichton.

Crichton Brothers were renowned for producing finely crafted interpretations of historic silver. In Jackson’s Silver and Gold Marks, Ian Pickford describes their work as “usually fine reproductions of early pieces”—a reputation clearly reflected in the remarkable quality and period-inspired decoration of this pair.

The form recalls early ecclesiastical pedestal dishes and standing patens once used in church ceremonies. By the later nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, such historic designs were reinterpreted as luxurious serving pieces for affluent households, suitable for fruit, confectionery or decorative display.

Each circular dish is fully gilded and centred with a different profile portrait of an ancient Roman emperor. The portraits are finely modelled, with expressive facial features, elaborate hair, armour and classical detailing. They are framed by richly chased concentric borders inspired by late Tudor and early seventeenth-century ornament.

The spreading pedestal stems are equally elaborate, decorated with sculpted masks and classical deity heads, together with geometric motifs, scrolling foliage and trailing grapevines. The dense, sculptural decoration demonstrates the exceptional chasing and repoussé work for which Crichton Brothers were known.

The rich gold surface enhances every raised detail and gives the pair a striking sense of depth and splendour. Although hallmarked in consecutive years—one in 1910 and the other in 1911—the dishes were clearly conceived as a closely matched pair.

Substantial in weight and beautifully preserved, they represent an impressive example of early twentieth-century English Revival silver and would make a distinguished addition to a collection or interior.

Details

* Date: 1910 and 1911
* Period: Edwardian / early George V
* Origin: London, England
* Maker: Crichton Brothers
* Associated silversmith: Lionel Alfred Crichton
* Material: Sterling silver
* Finish: Fully gilded
* Design: Roman emperor portrait medallions
* Style: Tudor and early seventeenth-century Revival
* Decoration: Classical masks, deity heads, geometric ornament and grapevine motifs
* Height: Approximately 13cm each
* Diameter: Approximately 16cm each
* Combined weight: Approximately 1,087g
* Quantity: One matched pair
* Reference: Ian Pickford, Jackson’s Silver and Gold Marks

Condition

Excellent antique condition, with the gilding retaining a rich and attractive colour. The chased and repoussé decoration remains crisp and well defined. Natural surface marks and gentle signs of age are present, consistent with pieces made more than a century ago. Please study the photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the condition description.

Why You’ll Love Them

A substantial and highly decorative pair by one of Britain’s most respected historicist silver manufacturers. Their Roman portrait medallions, richly worked pedestal stems, full gilding and consecutive London date marks give them exceptional visual presence and strong collector appeal.

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