Hukin & Heath 'Christopher Dresser' Sterling & Cut Glass Claret Jug

This piece is fully hallmarked for sterling silver, London, 1891-92 and the partnership of "J.T. Heath" and "John Middleton," operating as "Hukin & Heath." This firm was renowned for producing items inspired by famed English designer "Christopher Dresser."

This 10 3/4" tall silver and cut glass claret jug is in full conformity with other examples of such Dresser items from this source, and as such is an important example.

Similar examples are held at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, NYC, the Minneapolis Institute of Art, and in other significant collections.

The lofty, smooth walled body is tapered and sits on a splayed, 5" diameter, base whose underside is cut in a star pattern. The bulbous base style is mirrored in other kindred pieces.

The top of the body is fitted with a 2" wide silver collar (which carries the hallmarks), that has a surprisingly (in relation to the plainness of the piece overall) decorative spout that shows stippled ribbing and stylized flowers.

An entry about Dresser on the MMA website written by Sara Oshinsky of the Cooper-Hewitt notes, "Dresser was also inspired by botanical forms and the arts of Japan." The spout design on this is consistent with this sensibility.

The band is also engraved with a detailed armorial that portrays an upraised arm holding a broken arrow or weapon.

The handle is generously proportioned and extends at a right angle from the body and has C scroll detailing and is secured on the lower end to a silver band that encircles the glass.

The lid is tiered and has an acorn shaped finial. The underside is counter stamped with hallmarks corresponding to the main piece.

This form was frequently made in silverplate, and as one online source remarks in referencing a very similarly designed claret jug, "Hukin and Heath plated versions are rare, sterling silver pieces like this one, are even rarer."

This is in outstanding condition. The glass is clear and without chips, nicks, or cracks. The silver is fully intact and without damage, noting a slight imprint on the underside of the lid where the finial has been pushed down. The engraving remains crisp, absent polishing wear.

Please see both sets of enlargements.