An unusually large William and Mary silver two-handled, double-lidded peg tankard, maker's mark HC, three mullets below, a mullet flanked by two pellets above, in shaped shield, London, 1694

the slightly tapering cylindrical body embossed with curved lobes and flutes above the stepped base, engraved one either side with a coat-of-arms, helm and crest within tied drapery cartouches, one also engraved with the motto 'Esto fidelis,' beaded scroll handles, the similarly applied lids with ropework borders and applied knurled thumbpieces

Sir John Henry Brunel Noble, 1st Bt (1865-1938)
Thence by descent

Queen Charlotte's Loan Exhibition of Old Silver at Seaford House, Belgrave Square, London, 1 May to 8 June 1929, room B, no. 385, pl. LIV

International Studio, London, 1930, p. 22

Queen Charlotte's Loan Exhibition of Old Silver English Irish and Scottish All prior to 1739 with examples of present day work, The Saint Catherine Press, London, 1929, p. 46, no. 385 and pl. LIV

Fully hallmarked on the body and both lids, the marks are slightly worn but clearly visible; one lid with small hairline split at edge; each handle with maker's mark only, one handle with some minor denting and slightly pushed in at base. Engraving is in late 17th C style but most likely later although the motto appears to be contemporary. Overall scale and gague are impressive, evidently a unique piece made to commemorate a marriage or for ceremonial purposes, in overall good condition.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

'Remarkable in every respect is the giant ''peg'' tankard in Sir John Noble's collection, from the fact that it has two covers with thumb pieces and also two handles. Nothing approaching it is known in English silver. It was wrought by a London silvdersmith in 1694-5. The spiral fluting and the gadrooning were, it may be observed, copied by the early silversmiths of New England.' (International Studio, London, 1930, p. 22)