Georgian Sterling Silver Britannia Plaque for the London Assurance Corporation C1801
Georgian Sterling Silver Britannia Plaque for the London Assurance Corporation 🏛️
Period George III, early 19th century (circa 1801), London
Hallmarked Sterling Silver, Robert Hennell I & David Hennell II
An impressive early 19th-century London hallmarked silver plaque, combining refined neoclassical design with direct associations to the historic London Assurance Corporation—an institution central to the evolution of modern insurance and finance.
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Subject & Medium 🖌️
A finely cast and chased sterling silver plaque depicting an allegorical seated female figure, interpreted as Britannia or Assurance. She is shown with traditional attributes including shield, staff, and harp, beneath the inscription “LONDON ASSURANCE” and the number “13”.
Weight: approximately 7.8 troy oz (243 grams).
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Composition & Technique 🧠
The composition is executed in strong high relief, presenting a poised classical figure emblematic of protection, maritime strength, and institutional stability. The drapery is handled with fluidity, while accompanying elements—the shield, harp, and ground—are rendered with clarity and compositional balance.
The surface exhibits careful chasing with subtle variation in texture. Polished raised areas contrast effectively with recessed passages, creating depth and a sculptural, medallion-like quality typical of accomplished Georgian silverwork.
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About the Makers 🎭
The maker’s mark (RH over DH) is attributable to Robert Hennell I (c.1741–1811) and David Hennell II (1763–1839), part of a distinguished London silversmithing dynasty.
Operating from Foster Lane, a recognised centre for fine goldsmithing, the Hennell workshop was active during a period defined by neoclassical influence and increasing demand for both domestic and institutional silver.
Their work is characterised by:
• Precise and confident casting and chasing
• Harmonious neoclassical proportions
• Consistently high finishing standards
The present plaque aligns with their more formal output, likely intended for institutional or commemorative use rather than domestic function.
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Historical Significance 📜
This plaque is closely associated with the London Assurance Corporation, established by Royal Charter in 1720. It stands among the earliest surviving insurance institutions, formed in the aftermath of the South Sea Bubble and sanctioned under the Bubble Act.
Artefacts bearing its name reflect the emergence of organised financial risk management, particularly in maritime trade. Such objects represent the early visual identity of corporate enterprise within Britain’s expanding commercial framework.
Examples of this type are generally considered commemorative or internal pieces, rather than standard fire insurance marks.
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Symbolism & Iconography 🏺
The iconography conveys layered institutional meaning:
• Britannia – Authority, national identity, and protection
• Harp – Suggesting Irish connections and broader trade reach
• City Shield – Anchoring the corporation within London’s financial sphere
Together, these motifs communicate stability, credibility, and imperial ambition.
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Assay & Hallmarks 🔍
Fully hallmarked for London, including:
• Lion passant (sterling standard)
• Crowned leopard’s head (London assay office)
• Duty mark of King George III
• Date letter (circa 1801)
• Maker’s mark: RH / DH
These marks securely date the plaque to the early 19th century within the George III period.
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Size 📏
Height: 17 cm
Width: 14 cm
Depth: 0.6 cm
Weight: 7.8 troy oz / 243 grams
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Provenance 📚
Private UK collection;
acquired via the auction house Adam Partridge;
curated by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD.
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Why You’ll Love It ✅
✅ Genuine Georgian Silver – Early 19th-century London hallmarking
✅ Institutional Rarity – Linked to a foundational insurance corporation
✅ Hennell Attribution – From a respected London workshop
✅ Financial History Context – Connected to the post–South Sea Bubble era
✅ Symbolic Design – Rich in allegorical and heraldic meaning
✅ Numbered Example – Suggesting specific institutional relevance
✅ Strong Decorative Form – A sculptural and visually engaging object
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Condition Report 🔎
In good condition overall, with wear consistent with age. The surface shows light abrasions and slight softening to raised areas. Minor knocks to the edges and small rim distortions are visible on close inspection. Natural patina is present within recessed areas, enhancing depth. Structurally stable and suitable for display.
