12" Charles II Silver Tazza, 1661

This is a large and outstanding early Charles II period silver tazza in stunning condition.

Measuring 12" across the top plate and with superb original chasing around the border, this is an impressive piece of 17th century silver. The high-relief chasing depicts a cherub in four different reclined poses among embossed flowers and leaves and is typical of the decoration found on pieces of the early Carolean period. The plate stands on a trumpet-shaped foot and the central well is engraved with a contemporary to manufacture coat of arms within ribbon-tied wreath mantling.

For its great age, this silver tazza is in wonderful condition with a lovely patina. There are no holes, dents, repairs, nor even impressions of the foot to the flat plate. This is a huge bonus and makes it a stand-out piece.

The hallmarks remain clear too with all marks clearly struck within the chasing to the underside of the plate and adjacent to the rim. According to David M. Mitchell in "Silversmiths in Elizabethan & Stuart England", Clement Punge is the only candidate for the CP maker's mark (see page 259) and was a high quality producer of hollowware such as porringers and wine cups. Punge entered his mark at Goldsmiths Hall in 1637 and was working until circa 1666.

To put this silver tazza in to a historical perspective, 1661 was the year after the Restoration of the Monarchy following a period of great uncertainty and little silver production during the English Civil War and Commonwealth period. It even pre-dates the Great Fire of London of 1666.