Sterling Silver Serviette Ring | John Rose | Birmingham | c. 1944

Sterling Silver Serviette Ring | John Rose | Birmingham | c. 1944

Fine lines and one plain panel: room left for a name that was never added.

The JR maker’s mark is that of John Rose, a Birmingham silversmith of the twentieth century. Closely spaced horizontal reeding gives the simple cylindrical form its decoration, a treatment found on English silver serviette rings of the period.

The cylindrical ring is decorated all round with closely spaced horizontal reeding. At the front, the pattern is interrupted by a plain rectangular cartouche, defined by narrow vertical borders and left unengraved. The hallmarks are struck inside the ring.

Very good condition, with no dents or damage. The cartouche is unengraved. The date letter is worn and cannot be read.

Key Details

• Maker: John Rose, Birmingham
• Hallmarks: maker’s mark JR; anchor (Birmingham); lion passant (sterling); date letter worn
• Date: c. 1944
• Material: sterling silver
• Decoration: all-over horizontal reeding; vacant rectangular cartouche
• Dimensions: height 2.7 cm; diameter 4.2 cm
• Weight: 21 g
• Condition: very good; date letter worn
• Buyer profile: collectors of English hallmarked silver and of serviette rings, and anyone looking for a ring to engrave as a personal gift

Collector Appeal

A restrained example of twentieth-century English table silver, with closely spaced reeding and Birmingham assay marks. The vacant cartouche leaves room for personal engraving, and the maker’s mark keeps its interest for those who study British hallmarks.

The cartouche has waited through the decades for a name; it can wait for the right one.