Antique Victorian Sterling Silver Rococo Revival Baluster Mug by Martin, Hall & Co, Sheffield 1860

A finely crafted antique Victorian sterling silver baluster mug by the renowned Sheffield silversmith Martin, Hall & Co, fully hallmarked for 1860. Dating from the mid-Victorian period, this elegant mug is richly decorated in the Rococo Revival style with embossed floral and foliate motifs, flowing scrollwork, decorative cartouches and delicate butterfly details.

The sculptural baluster-shaped body is raised on a circular pedestal foot and fitted with an ornate scroll handle. A gilt interior adds warmth and refinement, while the original script monogram preserves an authentic element of the mug’s 19th-century history. With its substantial sterling silver construction and detailed decorative work, this is an appealing example of Victorian English silver suitable for display, collecting or use as a special keepsake.

Details

Item: Antique Victorian sterling silver baluster mug

Maker: Martin, Hall & Co

Origin: Sheffield, England

Date: 1860

Period: Mid-Victorian

Style: Rococo Revival

Material: Sterling silver, 925 standard

Hallmarks: Fully hallmarked for Sheffield 1860 with the maker’s mark for Martin, Hall & Co

Decoration: Embossed floral and foliate motifs, flowing Rococo-style scrollwork, decorative cartouches, butterfly details and original script monogram

Interior: Gilt interior

Handle: Ornate scroll handle

Height: Approx. 9 cm

Diameter of Rim: Approx. 6 cm

Weight: Approx. 124 g

Condition

Excellent antique condition with light age-related wear consistent with a genuine Victorian silver piece. The original script monogram forms part of the mug’s history and character. Please review the photographs carefully for the full condition.

Historical and Collector Context

Martin, Hall & Co was an important Sheffield silversmithing firm with origins dating back to the early 19th century. The company became known for producing a wide range of silver and silver-plated wares, combining skilled craftsmanship with the decorative styles favoured during the Victorian era.

This mug was hallmarked in Sheffield in 1860, during a period when Rococo Revival design remained highly fashionable in British decorative arts. Inspired by the flowing curves, floral ornament and asymmetrical motifs associated with 18th-century Rococo design, Victorian silversmiths adapted the style to create richly ornamented tableware and presentation pieces. The gilt interior, baluster form and detailed embossed decoration make this mug a particularly attractive example of mid-Victorian English silver.

All items are vintage or antique and may show light signs of age. Please review all photos carefully as they form part of the description. Feel free to message with any questions prior to purchase.