George III Silver-Gilt Pepper Pot with the Royal Cypher of Queen Charlotte, 1798

George III Silver-Gilt Pepper Pot with the Royal Cypher of Queen Charlotte, 1798

Royal Interest

A George III silver-gilt pepper pot by John Emes, London 1798. Engraved cypher of Queen Charlotte

The vase outline is with an engraved cypher of Queen Charlotte in a laurel wreath and a foliate border to the rim. the domed screw-off lid with pierced detail and engraved floral detail, raised on a circular spreading foot with a similar foliate border.

Dimensions: Height: 10.5cm, Weight: 2.5oz

Note: Queen Charlotte (1744-1818), wife of King George III, was a known patron of the arts and also a collector of silver. Born Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz in 1744, she married King George III in 1761 and moved to St James’s Palace from her royal residence in northern Germany. Queen Charlotte gave birth to fifteen children during her marriage and accrued a large collection of art before passing away in 1818, aged 74.

As an active collector, her cypher can be found on many pieces that span her lifetime, from wick trimmers to ornate tea services. It is also revealing to note the chosen silversmiths of the day such as Robert Garrard, Paul Storr and John Emes, were particular favourites of hers. John Emes (1762-1810) began his career as an apprentice to William Woollet in 1796, striking up a partnership with silversmith Henry Chawner that same year. Emes registered his independent hallmark in London in 1798, marking the ending of his previous partnership with Chawner.

Emes continued to work as a silversmith, painter, and engraver until his death in 1810. His wife, Rebecca Emes, and brother, William Emes, successfully continued the business, partnering with Edward Barnard, until Rebecca’s death circa 1828. Emes specialised in tea and coffee services and was a favourite among aristocrats and royals.