Exeter 1798? Left facing Kings Head?

[bstaunto]

Hi team,

A bit confused about this one.

Just picked up this sugar bowl.

Firstly wondering if anyone can recognise the maker, it is poorly struck, but has some interesting loops to it.

And secondly, I can't find other examples of a left-facing duty mark on Exeter pieces...is this a known thing? Or a bad sign?

As always, any thoughts appreciated.

Ben

[AG2012]

Hi,
George III facing left was punched in an octagonal escutcheon from December 1784 to end May 1786.
Example for London 1785.
That`s all I can tell.
Regards

[silvermakersmarks]

Not an Exeter mark at all in my opinion. They look like pseudo-marks, possibly Chinese export? But as far as I can tell they are not something which has previously crossed the 925-1000 radar.

Phil

[dognose]

Hi Ben,

That's a fascinating set of marks. I agree with Phil, pseudos.

The quality of the punches is exceptional, and surely the work of a professional engraver/die-sinker, which makes the whole piece all the more interesting.

What country was it acquired from?

Trev.

[bstaunto]

Thanks guys, the quality of the punches threw me.

It was purchased in the US. So may be North American origin?