George III Sterling Silver Britannia Plaque, London Assurance, Hennell, London 1801
A rare and highly collectible George III period sterling silver plaque depicting Britannia, produced in London circa 1801 by the renowned silversmiths Robert Hennell I & David Hennell II. This is an exceptional piece of early English institutional silver with strong neoclassical design and historical significance.
Description
Finely cast and chased in high relief, the plaque shows Britannia seated with shield, staff and harp beneath the inscription “LONDON ASSURANCE” and the number “13”. The composition is elegant and balanced, with flowing drapery and crisp detailing throughout.
The surface retains excellent definition, with polished highlights contrasting against deeper recessed areas, giving the piece a strong sculptural quality. It reads as both a work of art and a symbol of early corporate identity.
Makers & Origin
Bearing the maker’s mark “RH / DH”, this plaque is attributable to
... Robert Hennell I and David Hennell II, leading London silversmiths of the late Georgian period. Their workshop, based in Foster Lane, is well known for high-quality silver with refined neoclassical influence.
Pieces from the Hennell workshop are widely collected and respected for their craftsmanship and clarity of design.
Historical Importance
Connected to the London Assurance Corporation, founded by Royal Charter in 1720, this plaque represents one of the earliest periods of organised insurance and financial enterprise in Britain.
Following the Bubble Act, London Assurance became one of only two authorised joint-stock insurance companies, making objects associated with it both rare and historically important. This example likely served an institutional or commemorative function rather than a domestic one.
Hallmarks
Clear London hallmarks including:
Lion passant (sterling standard)
Leopard’s head (London assay office)
Duty mark of George III
Date letter for 1801
Maker’s mark RH / DH
Dimensions
Height: 17 cm
Width: 14 cm
Depth: 0.6 cm
Weight: 7.8 troy oz (243 grams)
Condition
Good antique condition. Light surface wear and minor abrasions consistent with age. Slight softening to high points and small edge knocks. Natural patina present, enhancing depth and character. Structurally sound and ready for display.
Provenance
Private UK collection
Curated by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD
Why This Piece Stands Out
Rare George III hallmarked silver plaque
Strong neoclassical Britannia design
Direct link to early London insurance history
Highly decorative and conversation-led object
Suitable for collectors, interiors, or institutional interest
Search Terms (SEO)
george iii silver plaque britannia london assurance hennell antique english silver hallmarked 1801 neoclassical plaque georgian silver collectible
Delivery shipping information
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Internal Reference: CAC-SK-0494
Antique ID Number (AIDN): SA1212185
Dateline of this antique is 19th Century
Height is 17cm (6.7inches)Width is 14cm (5.5inches)Depth is 0.6cm (0.2inches)
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