Antique Victorian Scottish Sterling Silver Sugar Tongs | William Clarke Shaw, Glasgow 1856, 52g

Antique Victorian Scottish Sterling Silver Sugar Tongs | William Clarke Shaw, Glasgow 1856

An exceptionally handsome pair of authentic mid-Victorian Scottish sterling silver sugar tongs, crafted in a classic heavy-gauge form by Glasgow silversmith William Clarke Shaw.

The elegant piece features elongated arms adorned with a stylised Grecian-pattern variant and refined reeded borders, terminating in detailed ornate scroll-capped shell bowls. The curved bridge is finished with a hand-engraved monogram letter 'M' in Victorian scroll script, likely denoting the prominent family who originally commissioned the piece in 1856.

A wonderful addition for serious silver collectors, historic tea displays, or as a sophisticated antique gift with genuine 170-year-old historical patina.

Hallmarks

The interior curve of the bridge carries a crisp, complete five-stamp set of Scottish hallmarks:

• Maker's Mark: W·C — William Clarke Shaw, Glasgow silversmith
• Town Mark: Glasgow City Arms — Saint Mungo's bell, bird, tree, and salmon
• Standard Mark: Lion Rampant — guaranteed sterling silver .925 purity
• Duty Mark: Queen's Head — Queen Victoria profile certifying duty paid
• Date Letter: Capital 'O' in shield cartouche — datable exactly to 1856

Specifications

• Material: Solid Sterling Silver (.925)
• Total Weight: 52g (approx. 1.67 troy oz)
• Length: Approx. 5⅝" (14.3cm)
• Terminal Style: Ornate scroll-capped shell bowls
• Decoration: Grecian pattern with reeded borders; engraved 'M' monogram to bridge

Condition

Excellent antique condition with wonderful character consistent with 170 years of history. We describe condition honestly so you know exactly what you are buying:

• The spring bridge remains fully intact with excellent mechanical tension and perfect alignment
• Minor surface wear and fine hairline scratching consistent with age and light domestic use
• No splits, holes, repairs, or structural compromises — the structural integrity is pristine

Please inspect all photographs closely to verify condition details — the item pictured is the exact piece you will receive.

What's Included

• Victorian Scottish Sterling Silver Sugar Tongs by William Clarke Shaw, Glasgow 1856
• Luxury black presentation box
• Anti-tarnish tissue

Shipping

Sent via Royal Mail Special Delivery — fully tracked, insured, and signature required on delivery.