A rare provincial George III silver tankard, John Langlands I, Newcastle 1774

In Scandinavian taste; tapering cylindrical body raised on three leaf-embellished stylised pomegranate feet, plain flat-dome hinged cover with openwork twin pomegranate thumbpiece, scroll handle with applied strapwork embellishment, engraved crest and initials

Engraved with the crest of Cookson over the initials 'AAC'.

The Cookson family (active 1700-1863), industrialists and bankers, came to prominence with Isaac Cookson, the glass and iron manufacturer, born in 1679. By 1704 he had moved to Newcastle upon Tyne where he established an ironworks alongside his eldest brother William, which by 1750 had proved a great success. Although both brothers died within a year of each other in 1743, Isaac bequeathed his estate to his son John (1712-83) who became one of Newcastle's most influential figures as merchant, glass and iron manufacturer, mine owner and banker during the second part of the 18th century.

It is interesting to note that William's youngest son Isaac became one of Newcastle's most important silversmiths, with John Langlands I, whose mark is struck on the present lot, his apprentice of ten years. Langlands worked for Cookson for twenty-three years in total and took over his workshop upon his death in 1754. 

John, among his broad industrial interests, was a shareholder in the Newcastle Whale Fishing Co. and like his father, a Merchant Adventurer, whose duty it was, along with his fellow investors, to develop overseas trade in Europe and the New World. It is therefore fitting that the present lot bears such strong Scandinavian influences, styling itself on the 17th century 'peg' tankard synonymous with Norwegian ritual and celebration.      

Hallmarks clear to body below rim. The handle stamped with makers mark only. The cover stamped with lion passant only. Sits almost flat on an even surface. The colour is bright with fine surface scratches throughout.
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