A Victorian silver ewer, Edward Charles Brown for Richards & Brown, London, 1869

vine handle, spout in the form of a horse's head

In overall good condition. Fully hallarked on the neck. For further queries regarding this lot please contact the Silver Department directly on +44(0)207.293.5100
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Edward Charles Brown, the son of Henry Brown, goldsmith of Clerkenwell Close, and his wife, Mary, was born on 26 February 1831 and baptised about a month later on 28 March at St. James's, Clerkenwell. He was subsequently apprenticed to his brother-in-law, George John Richards at 35 Whiskin Street, Clerkenwell; Richards had married Brown's sister, Louisa Lydia, at St. George's, Bloomsbury, on 10 July 1841. Brown, who eventually became a partner with Richards, after which the business was styled Richards & Brown, died on 20 January 1883. Richards, meanwhile, retired in 1867 and died at East Molesey, Surrey, on 23 August 1876. For further information, see John Culme, The Directory of Gold & Silversmiths, Woodbridge, 1987, vol. I, pp. 386 and 387.