Significant British Sheffield Silversmiths: Waterhouse, Hodgson & Co. , Pair of George IV Sterling Silver Candlesticks, Dated 1824

A marvellous pair of George IV sterling candlesticks in a repousse pattern by makers marks of Waterhouse, Hodgson & Co. and dated 1824. Joseph Waterhouse was registered in partnership with Dr Hodgson as a silver manufacturer in Sheffield Ireland in 1822 and was known for producing high quality fine, large presentation silver, as well as candlesticks and candelabra. The firm may have had connections to the earlier Blagden Hodgson & Co. silversmiths as one notable example is a set of 12 candlesticks from 1814/1815, now part of the Royal Collection. 

George IV’s reign, from 1820 to 1830, saw a distinct style in silver, often referred to as George IV or Regency style. The pair presented here are indeed from this period as characterized by a mix of neoclassical and rococo influences, featuring elaborate repousse or high relief texture. The acanthus leaf/floral motifs are a heavy design, forming a weighted circular base rim of acanthus leaves that support a column in high relief large petal forms. The top knop has detachable nozzle, both with a surround of stylized acanthus leaves. All in excellent condition. 

There is an interesting inscription engraved on both bases of “an armoured arm and hand holding a flour de lis”. This “crest” is of historical heraldry significance. The “armoured arm” symbolizing strength, readiness for battle or military prowess and the “flour de lis” symbolizing historical French heraldry associated with the French monarchy, military or historical event.