A fine George II cast silver taperstick in the Baroque style, the turned bobbin sconce with central ring over a fluted inverted baluster with hexagonal base to a capstan over a dished centre with a crest within a gartered motto, raised on a spreading hexafoil foot alternating with applied shells. London 1736, the maker’s mark apparently not struck. Condition: Excellent, the taperstick is in very good condition with no damage, breaks or significant marks. The crest is almost certainly original and period to the piece, the motto ‘Rinasce Piu Gloriosa’ (More Gloriously Reborn) is in a garter around a crest of a phoenix rising from the flames, and is possibly that of the Earls of Rosslyn. The hallmarks are very clearly struck and legible, and there is (as is often found of candlesticks of this era) a part mark on the sconce, however an extensive search has failed to turn up a maker’s mark. Overall the piece is in lovely condition, with minor marks consistent with age, and has the lovely patina and colour redolent of Georgian silver. Measurements: Height = 12.5 cm (5”) Weight = 162.7 g (5.23 oz t)
