Plate, charger

A single-reeded pewter plate decorated with wrigglework around the rim and in the centre with a two-handled vase or loving cup holding three tulips, flanked by the initials ‘E’ and ‘G’. There are some obscure hallmarks on rim and on the underside touches of a crowned rose; a rampant horse, profile to left, holding a key and a name label inscribed ‘I HITCHMAN/MADE IN LONDON’ for James Hitchman, London, OP2340 who was free in 1701. Date: early 18th century.

Hitchman is well known for his commemorative ‘wedding plates’ and was probably equally well known in his life time as a provider of (naively) engraved plates in the wrigglework technique to mark a special event, anniversary or family occasion (see another example A22567). They were usually engraved with two initials in a prominent position, sometimes also with three initials and occasionally with a date. Because of the large number of surviving plates by Hitchman, which appear to be engraved ‘by the same hand’ it is thought that Hitchman acquired the technique and no doubt benefited greatly from sales of commemorative wares.

A similar dish with different initials in the Little collection was sold by Christies on May 1, 2007,lot 52.

Provenance: Given with A22566