Victoria Bridge Silver Epergne

This breathtakingly grand and beautifully crafted sterling silver epergne centerpiece pays homage to the builder of Victoria Bridge in Glasgow, which was one of the two largest bridges in Britain at the time. Masterful skill and incredible precision by silversmiths James and Nathaniel Creswick of London are apparent in this presentation piece made for William York, Esq. who crafted the engineering marvel that spans the River Clyde. The motif features a precise replica of Victoria Bridge, flanked by figures of a medieval knight and Neptune holding his trident residing atop two feet of the tripod base. Atop the third foot is a figure most likely representing Britannia with the arms of York and an inscription on either side. At the center, six candelabra branches radiate from a wonderful scrolling stem, which is topped by a glass bowl. Measuring nearly four feet high, coupled with unrivaled craftsmanship and fascinating provenance, this epergne is one of the finest examples of British presentation silver on the market.

Considered one of the most successful builders in the mid-19th century, York oversaw the construction of several of Glasgow's most important structures, including Victoria Bridge. Built between 1851-1854, the structure was designed by premier engineer James Walker. Created of sandstone and Irish granite, the bridge replaced an old timber bridge that had been in existence since the 13th century. With a width of 50 feet, Victoria Bridge was a spectacular accomplishment for the period and was one of two of the widest bridges in Britain. Today, Victoria Bridge is the oldest surviving bridge in Glasgow–a testament to the construction talents of York. The arms featured on the epergne are those York impaling Masterton for William York who was born in 1799 and married Janet Masterton (d. 1866) at Barony, Lanarkshire, on July 11, 1819.

The inscription reads "Presented to / William York Esqr. / by a few friends as an expression of their / high estimate of his Character & worth / as a private Gentleman, as Deacon, / Convener of the Trade House, as a / Member of the City Council and as / the successful Builder of / Victoria Bridge / Glasgow 1854."

Hallmarked London, 1854

Measures: 44" high.