A PAIR OF GEORGE II SILVER DOLPHIN-HANDLED SAUCE BOATS, LONDON, 1746

Each of lobed oval form, the shaped rim following the panels of the body, with a broad pouring lip. The flying scroll handle rises to a finely cast dolphin's head, its back ribbed like a fin. The boat stands on three shell-capped cabriole legs with stepped pad feet. The sides are left plain and have never been engraved.

A typical London sauce boat of the 1740s, by a maker whose mark is often found on this form. The dolphin comes from classical art, where it belonged to Neptune and stood for the sea. Rococo silversmiths gave sea creatures and shells to vessels that pour, especially one called a boat. Indian eyes will recognise the idea in the makara, the water creature that carries Ganga and forms the spouts of our temples. The pair has stayed together, and the sides have never been engraved.

Condition: Both stand well. The shell feet show rubbing consistent with age. Light surface scratches and wear from use. No engraving and no signs of erasure.