Star & Cornucopia Fish Slice, 1840

This is a superb silver fish serving slice in a very rare and sought after pattern. Star & Cornucopia Pattern was made solely by Lias Brothers and according to Ian Pickford on page 130 of "Silver Flatware", all known pieces date from 1839/40.

In addition to the star and the conjoined cornucopia motifs displayed to the front there are several shamrocks. The reverse side is decorated with sprays of oak and laurel in combination with thistles and shamrocks. Cornucopia are symbollic of plenty and nourishment and the conjoined nature of the two depicted in combination with the flower emblems of the Union, suggests that the pattern was designed to commemorate Queen Victoria's marriage in 1840 to Prince Albert. Pieces in this pattern are extremely rare.

This fish slice is of the very highest quality with a good hefty weight and an attractively pierced blade. The pattern is super crisp throughout and there is an engraved crest to the front terminal. A truly excellent quality piece in lovely condition.