Antique Silver Sugar Nips – William Dorrell, c.1745
Description: A fine pair of early Georgian sterling silver sugar nips, hallmarked with the lion passant and maker’s mark W·D for William Dorrell, circa 1745. This elegant scissor-type design represents one of the earliest forms of sugar nips, used for breaking and serving sugar lumps during the 18th century. Beautifully proportioned and well made, they demonstrate the refined craftsmanship typical of the Georgian period.
Brief Maker History: William Dorrell was an active London silversmith during the mid-18th century, recorded around 1740–1760. He produced fine domestic silver including spoons, tongs, and small tableware. His work is well regarded for its quality and early Georgian styling, and examples are increasingly scarce.
Key Details:
Maker: William Dorrell
Date: c.1745
Assay: Sterling silver
Hallmarks: Lion passant and maker’s mark W·D
Weight: 35.0g
Length: 115mm
Style: Early scissor-type sugar nips
Period: Early Georgian
Condition:
In beautiful antique condition with light surface wear consistent with age.
Minor pitting to the bowl interiors, as shown in the photographs.
Hinge operates smoothly and securely.
Summary: An excellent example of early Georgian silver by William Dorrell, these scissor-type sugar nips are a fine collector’s piece representing the transition from sugar cutters to later bow tongs. A lovely period item with charm and character, perfect for display or as part of a specialist silver collection.
Shipping: As usual, this item will be packaged carefully and dispatched with tracking. International shipping is available through the eBay Global Shipping Programme (GSP).
