About this lot

Description

A George II silver two handled porringer, possibly by Peter Simon, London 1726, of traditional half gadrooned form with reeded decoration, the front with an oval cartouche engraved with initials, two scroll handles, 6.1ozt 9 x 11 x 11cm (4 x 4 x 4in)
Other Notes: Tableware, and indeed diets, have changed considerably through the ages. In the 16th and 17th century, everyday nourishment depended heavily on eggs, milk, oats and grains. Ale, sack mead, wine, spices, sultanas and sugar were added for flavour. The gruel, porridge, potage (soup), caudle and other sloppy warm mixtures were partially drunk and partially eaten with a spoon. They were individually served in 2 handled cups which became known as porringers. The porringer was introduced in the 1600s and evolved from its predecessor, the posset cup, which had a lid and was used for holding 'posset' - a hot remedy drink made from curdled milk with wine or ale. During the 17th and 18th centuries, porringers of all sizes were used within homes throughout England and Europe. They became an all-purpose bowl for an individual family member, so it was common practice that they would be embellished with personalised engraving, as in this example.

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