Edward, John & William Barnard

Height: 26.5cm (10.43in)

Total Combined Weight: 46.6oz (1449.3gr)

Bearing the arms of Sir Claude William Champion de Crespigny, 3rd Baronet

This beautiful pair of classically inspired jugs, crafted in London in 1846 by the esteemed firm of Barnards, stands as a testament to the artistry and refinement of mid-19th century British silversmithing. Made from sterling silver, it exhibits both practical functionality and ornamental sophistication, qualities that defined the finest domestic silverware of the Victorian era.

The jug’s form is graceful and balanced, with a rounded body that tapers elegantly towards the neck. The spout is boldly shaped, flaring outward with subtle curves, while the handle sweeps in a confident arc, adorned with finely cast scrollwork and a discreet ivory insulator to protect the hand from heat. The hinged lid is crowned with a decorative finial, itself a miniature work of sculpture, adding a note of grandeur to the overall design.

One of the most striking features is the meticulous engraving. Around the neck, a pattern of radiating fan-like motifs and circular elements creates a rhythmic decorative band, catching and reflecting light in a way that enhances the jug’s sculptural form. Below, on the belly, a finely chased and engraved armorial crest is prominently displayed, enclosed within a circular cartouche.

The arms are almost certainly that of Sir Claude William Champion de Crespigny, 3rd Baronet who married in 1852. This exact pair of jugs is illustrated on page 220, The House of Barnards by John Fallen. Not only is there an image of this pair of jusgs but it goes further to show these jugs in the Barnard ledger dated April 1847 when they were sold to retailed Makepeace & Wolford. Interestingly sold with no crest. Then when they were acquired in 1851 or 1852 prior to the wedding they would have been engraved.