Silver Queen Victoria Gilded Tea Set Stephen Smith, 1880

A three-piece silver-gilt tea set comprising teapot, cream jug and sugar bowl, each of rectangular form with angular handles incorporating Greek key decoration. Every surface is finely engraved in the Aesthetic taste with scenes of cranes, exotic birds and bamboo within geometric border ornament, the whole reflecting the Victorian fascination with Japanese design that defined the movement at its height. The warm gilded finish heightens the delicacy of the engraving to considerable effect. Presented in a fitted burgundy case with gilt fittings, the set is in exceptional condition. Made by Stephen Smith, hallmarked London 1880, this is a rare and beautifully conceived example of Victorian Aesthetic silversmithing at its most accomplished.