A RARE PAIR OF WILLIAM III IRISH SILVER PEPPERS, THOMAS BOLTON, DUBLIN, 1696-98 |

each of inverted baluster form with fluted upper sections above a moulded girdle, the pierced covers with gadrooned rims and mounted coral finials, the bodies engraved with a monogram below a Baron's coronet, the covers engraved with a later crest below an Earl's cornet

The later crest and coronet is for the Earl's of Milltown, probably for Joseph Leeson, 1st Viscount Russborough, the Irish peer and politician.

One clearly marked to underside. The other apparently unmarked. Both covers unmarked and possibly later modelled.Typical surface wear to the bodies, commensurate with age, with the bases a little uneven at the foot. Otherwise 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."

Thomas Bolton is widely considered to be one of the great Irish silversmiths to emerge during the flowering of Irish silverwork in the late 17th century. His work was versatile and avant garde with unique flourishes of ornament, as can be seen with the coral finials on the present peppers. He is recognised for pieces including toilet sets, of which these peppers probably originally formed part of, as well as cups, jugs, tea canisters, stands, and monteiths. After registering his first mark in 1686 he rose to become assay master (1690) and subsequently Lord Mayor of Dublin in 1692. Bolton’s contribution to the city of Dublin was considered so significant that Bolton Street, on the north side of Dublin’s Liffey river was named after him.