A set of six silver spoons and sugar tongs by Hukin and Heath

For sale are these Heath and Middleton (Hukin and Heath) boxed set of six tea spoons and sugar tongs.  The set comprises three matching pairs, with the sugar tongs’ design matching one of the pairs.  All items are marked for Heath and Middleton, Birmingham, 1901.  The condition of the spoons and tongs is exceptional and on that basis I think the unmarked box is probably original, though not perfectly fitted.  The box itself is functional but dry, warped and tatty.

Two of the pairs of spoons carry different design registration marks for c 1900, as do the sugar tongs.  Interestingly the pair of spoons that match to a known Liberty design by Oliver Baker from 1899 carry no registration mark (perhaps because Heath and Middleton were not the registrants!).  Individually each of the designs of these spoons is known but I have never seen a set like this before.

Heath and Middleton were the successor partnership to the founders of Hukin and Heath.  This long standing Birmingham firm was highly innovative, employing Christopher Dresser in the 1880’s to do some of his most radical metalwork designs. Throughout the 1880’s and 1890’s they also produced other outstanding aesthetic and novelty silver also.  By c 1900 Hukin and Heath had embraced the emerging Birmingham arts and craft (and art nouveau) movements and produced some pieces like these spoons, in keeping with the style of these new movements.

Condition is excellent.  Hallmarks are crisp.

Price range: Sold

Maker: Heath and Middleton (Hukin and Heath)

Designer: Unknown (one pair Oliver Baker)

Date: 1901

Marks: JTH/JWM, Birmingham, “b”

Material: Sterling silver

Condition: Excellent (box poor)

Size: Approx 10 cm each

Weight: Approx 0.6 oz, 18 grams each. Tongs 0.9 oz, 26 grams