Silver & Rhino Horn Toddy Ladle – Peter Aitken I

An exquisite and rare example of early 19th-century Scottish craftsmanship, this Toddy Ladle combines high-grade silver with the refined aesthetic of a carved rhinoceros horn handle. Produced in Glasgow during the William IV period, this piece is a sophisticated remnant of historic Scottish social customs.

Detailed Craftsmanship

• The Bowl: A deep, circular silver bowl with a high-polished interior, designed specifically for the serving of hot “toddy”.

• The Silver Ferrule: The silver-to-handle transition is seamless, featuring a sturdy silver ferrule that ensures structural integrity.

• The Handle: Carved from rhinoceros horn, the handle is fashioned in a highly desirable “bamboo” or knotted style.

• Handle Aesthetics: This organic form provides a tactile, ergonomic grip while offering a warm, honey-colored visual contrast to the cool silver.

• The Finial: The piece is capped with a decorative silver finial, featuring intricate repoussé floral or foliate scrollwork.

• Balance: This weighted end serves to balance the ladle during use.

• Hallmarks: Stamped for Glasgow, 1836, with the maker’s mark of Peter Aitken I.

• Maker Reputation: Aitken was a prominent Glasgow silversmith known for his high-quality flatware and hollowware during this era.

The Henry and Tricia Byrom Collection

The provenance of this ladle adds significant historical and collector value, originating from the esteemed Henry and Tricia Byrom Collection.

• Significance: Henry and Tricia Byrom were renowned collectors known for their discerning eye for Southern African and British colonial artifacts.

• Authenticity: Items from their collection are frequently characterized by their high degree of authenticity, documented history, and “market-fresh” quality.