Royal. A small silver-gilt cup, David Willaume, circa 1720

leaf-capped double scroll handles, engraved with the Royal Arms of King George II

With S.J. Shrubshole, New York;
Private Collection 

Good colour despite minor wear commensurate with age, engraving reasonably crisp, nice heavy gauge.
"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."

Together with Pierre Harache, David Willaume (1658-1741) was one of the most eminent Huguenot goldsmiths in 17th-18th century London. Son of Adam Willaume, a goldsmith in Metz, he is recorded at the sign of the Windsor Castle, Charing Cross, Westminster, from 1686, moving then to Pall Mall and later St James's Street. Banker and goldsmith, the production of his workshop represents the quintessence of the Huguenot silver, its style and high quality, providing celebrated noble patrons such as the Duke of Devonshire and the Duke of Brunswick. David Willaume also received commissions from the King and Queen for royal presents or ambassadorial allowance, engraved with the royal coat-of-arms, such as the present cup. Willaume provided, for instance, part of the ambassadorial plate for Thomas Wentworth, Lord Raby, later Earl of Strafford (1672-1739). Christopher Hartop, The Huguenot Legacy, English silver from the Alan and Simone Hartman Collection, London, 1996, p. 74-78. Lord Raby's large silver cistern, part of his ambassadorial plate for Berlin in 1709, was sold at Sotheby's London, 6 July 2010, lot 8.
This cup is struck four times with the maker's mark only, which would lead to suggest that it was part of a larger service, most likely a toilet service. It is unsurprising to find smaller pieces not fully hallmarked, such as cream jugs and small cups and covers. See a silver octagonal cream jug, David Willaume, circa 1720, Christie's, London, 22 May 1991, lot 115.