Art, Gold & Silver, Primitives & Rare Books
Lot 192:
Description
Dublin, circa 1789 – Maker’s mark “TJ”, attributed to Thomas Jones – 25.25" x 15.5" – Of rectangular form with rounded corners, the tray is finely constructed with a broad gadrooned rim and applied molded and beaded decoration, the corners enriched with applied scroll and beadwork. The surface is finely engraved at the center with a well-executed armorial achievement, depicting an eagle displayed within a shield, framed by exuberant late-Georgian scrollwork and foliage, and flab4323ed by ribbon banners inscribed with the Latin motto “MOUEO ET PROFICTOR”, engraved exactly as spelled. The reverse bears clear Dublin assay marks, including Hibernia and the harp surmounted by a crown, together confirming Irish sterling standard (together with the date letter corresponding to 1789). Also present is the maker’s mark “TJ”, attributable to Thomas Jones, an active Dublin silversmith of the late 18th century noted for producing substantial domestic and presentation plate. Further engraved to the underside are the owner’s initials “HJN”, along with the original recorded weight “87 / 14”, denoting 87 ounces, 14 pennyweight, recorded in accordance with customary Georgian household silver accounting practices. The armorial engraving and motto are possibly related to the Knox family, whose recorded heraldic motto Moveo et proficior is encountered in variant Latin spellings in the late 18th century; while no definitive attribution is asserted, the motto, heraldic elements, and engraving style suggest a likely familial or allied connection consistent with Anglo-Irish or Scottish-Irish gentry patronage of the period. Dimensions: 23 × 15 inches (58.4 × 38.1 cm) – Weight: 2,670 grams (approx. 85.8 troy ounces), closely consistent with the original engraved weight – Standard: Irish sterling silver (.925), Dublin Assay Office – Large Irish silver trays of this scale and quality are notably scarce, particularly examples retaining original armorial engraving, documented weight inscription, and clear Dublin assay marks. The present tray represents a distinguished survival of late-18th-century Irish Georgian silver, exemplifying the confident craftsmanship and bold decorative character of Dublin silver in the decades preceding the Act of Union.
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