Sterling Silver sauce boat, Hester Bateman (1709-1794), London, England antique 1789 Georgian, a famous female early English silversmith, with bead punched rim, flying leaf capped scroll handle and three supports, monogrammed.

A beautiful, useful and rare silver sauce boat by Hester Bateman of Aldergate, London, the most famous of 18th century English female silversmiths. This piece represents a rare opportunity for collectors or as the most beautiful and exquisite gift. A true piece of history.

Date mark: Fully marked with date letter 'o' for 1789, lion passant guardant for Sterling Silver, George III lions head assay mark for London town and makers mark 'HB' in shield for Hester Bateman.

Size (approximate): Weight 90g, Width 13.3cm, Depth 7cm, Height 8cm.

Condition: Excellent antique condition. Clear hallmarks with some rubbing. Please see photographs for confirmation.

Background: Hester Bateman (1709-1794) was the daughter of John and Elizabeth Nedem. In 1732 she married the goldsmith John Bateman at the Church of St. Botolph's, Aldergate, in the City of London) and together they worked a small silversmith business. It is believed John never held a formal apprenticeship, which is why many Bateman pieces had been contracted out to talented craftsmen. John was a Chainmaker (a branch of silversmiths art) and died on November 13, 1760 leaving in his will 'unto my loving wife, Easter Bateman all my household goods and implements'. When her husband died Hester had at least five children, Jonathan, Peter, probably John (who may have been connected with the business, although he is only recorded as a watch and clock-maker), Letitia and Ann. Only Peter, Letitia, and Ann were still living at the time of Hester's death. Hester registered her mark at Goldsmith's Hall on April 16th 1761 as Hester Bateman in Bunnhill Row and this mark was used until 1790. Hester died in 1794 when she was living in the Parish of St. Andrew when she lived with her daughter Letitia.