This information has been updated with many thanks to Miles Harrison, who has recently published a new book "Exeter and West Country silver 1700-1900".  This is an extremely comprehensive book and can be bought directly from Miles - simply click HERE

There were three John Manleys of Dartmouth.  Grandfather, father & son.  John Manley II died in 1794, aged 83.  The only record we have of sugar tongs being sent for assay by John Manley is between Arpil and December 1794.  We can therefore be confident in dating these tongs to that date. These are a lovely pair of feather edges tongs with a very pronounced acorn bowl.