An extremely fine pair of George III Drinking Beakers, of large size

These examples are of the finest quality and are modelled in an unusually large size. Both are plain in design, with slightly tapering sides, with a rib at the rim, and gilded interiors. The front of both is engraved with a very unusual contemporary Crest and both are very well marked with a crisp set of hallmarks. John Robins was also a superior silversmith who had been apprenticed to another quality silversmith, this being David Whyte. His first mark was entered on 20th October 1774, and he had workshops in Aldersgate Street, when these beakers were made. Robins made very fine pieces, of the finest quality in production and design. With regard to the heraldic engraving, this is the crest of Willis of Fen Ditton, Cambridgeshire and Horingsley and Bales, Hertfordshire. The family of Willis claims descent from the eminent and ennobled family of Welles. Browne Willis, M.P., the celebrated antiquarian, was one of its members. In the reign of Charles II, Thomas Willis, of the Berkshire family of that name, and to which family a baronetcy was granted by King Charles I, settled in Lancashire and purchased estates in that county, which, together with others, are now in possession of Richard Willis, Esq. of Halsnead Park. Interestingly in 1802 there was a prominent branch of the Willis family who claimed to be descended from this family- they were Francis Willis (1718-1807) and his sons Robert and John Darling. They were the psychiatrists who treated George III during his incapacity. Height: 4.3 inches, 10.75 cm. Diameter at the rim: 3.8 inches, 9.5 cm. Weight: 15oz, the pair.

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