John & Henry Lias’ mark was first entered on 14^th March 1818 as spoon-makers and lasted until 7^th August 1823, when Charles entered the partnership. These sugar tongs are plain and although not as heavy as some of this period, they have larger bowls than is normal for earlier plain sugar tongs. This helps to date them as later rather than earlier. They have a superb example of the maker’s mark. The only mark I know of with the corners cut in this way. They also clearly show a journey-man’s mark.

Note that the date letter is "b" dating the tongs prior to May 29th 1818. This means that these tongs can be very accurately dated between 14th March and 29th May 1818.

Click here to see tongs by John Lias

Click here to see tongs by John, Henry & Charles Lias

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