These silver sugar tongs are dated at around 1775. I have attributed them to John Bourne, but in fact there were several makers around that time that they could have been made by. These tongs are a fairly straightforward style, with the usual shell bowls. Note the small scroll ends to the bowls. Notice the lovely engraved flower pattern to the tops of the arms, often referred to as "Adam" style. As with most cast sugar tongs, there is evidence of a repair. With these it is a very small repair and is difficult to see with the naked eye. Click on any picture to enlarge |