Shining examples of silver at Cork sale

Stand out pieces in collector’s silver sale are highly prized, says Des O’Sullivan with high values included.

Irish Provincial silver from bygone days is hugely prized and Woodwards have come up with various pieces to choose from, at their silver sale in Cork next Wednesday, Nov 13, at 2 pm.

The rarity of a long handled Limerick soup ladle by Patrick Connell c1785 is reflected in an estimate of €5,000-€7,000. A Cork bright cut ladle by John Toleken of similar vintage is estimated at €2,000-€2,500 and a pair of c1750 Dublin sauceboats by R Glanville carry an estimate of €2,500-€3,000.

These pieces are the creme de la creme of the various sugar bowls, cream jugs, coffee pots, tablespoons and associated silverware of this 200 lot sale.

Many desirable items on offer are much more affordable and carry estimates that are within reach of eager collectors and gift buyers. For example, a London silver brandy warmer from 1735 is estimated at €200-€250 and a pair of c1780 Irish silver spoons by John Sheils is estimated at €40-€50.

Other prime lots include a large Cork sauceboat by William Reynolds (€1,000-€1,500), a Cork c1760 ladle by John Nicholson, (€1,500-€2,000); a set of Cork spoons made around 1810 by Carden Terry and Jane Williams, (€500-€700); a Cork c1780 ladle by James Heyland, (€800-€1,000); a pair of serving spoons, c1804, by William Ward of Limerick, (€600-€800), and a canteen of Arthur Price cutlery, (€400-€500).

There is a selection of Georgian and Victorian English silver and plate and a small collection of Irish art with works by artists including William Harrington, William Crozier and Norman McCaig.

The auction is on view from 2pm to 5pm today and tomorrow, from 10am to 5pm next Monday and Tuesday and from 10am to the start of the sale on Wednesday.