FEVERED pre-sale interest in a rare large Victorian silver canteen of cutlery translated into impressive bidding at Greenslade Taylor Hunt’s (GTH) latest antiques sale with the lot selling for nearly £10,000.

It had been consigned by a vendor in West Somerset, whose identity has not been disclosed, following a house call by the auctioneers

The cutlery featured the ‘palm pattern’ by George Adams, which was first produced by Chawner & Co.

Chawner was the most important manufacturer of spoons and forks in London and participated in the 1851 Great Exhibition and the 1862 International Exhibition.

Their pattern book (c. 1875) is the reference for naming many of the patterns manufactured in the Victorian era.

George Adams married Mary Ann Chawner, daughter of William Chawner, the well-regarded silversmith.

Under George’s leadership the firm flourished and was regarded as the best producer of high-quality flatware in a range of intricate patterns.

Hallmarked ‘London 1866’, the extensive set with monogram and crest on offer at the Somerset Salerooms comfortably exceeded its guide price.

It comprised 24 table forks, 18 dessert forks, 18 serving spoons, 18 dessert spoons, 24 teaspoons, five condiment spoons, four toddy ladles, one large ladle, two large serving spoons, a sauce ladle, a sugar sifter spoon, sugar tongs, and a butter knife.

There were also examples of reproduction ‘palm pattern’ knives hallmarked ‘London 1961’ together with a period copy, flame mahogany fronted cabinet with fitted, felt lined trays to house all pieces of the canteen.

Elsewhere in the sale, a Victorian 18ct gold half hunter pocket watch, hallmarked ‘Birmingham 1900’ also attracted much pre-auction attention and sold for £2,300, which easily exceeded its pre-sale guide.

GTH’s next sale of jewellery, watches, and silverware at Junction 24, North Petherton, is on Thursday, September 4, from 10 am.

For details and to consign lots, call 01278 410250.