c1740-1755 Rare English Georgian Sterling Silver Sugar Nips Scissors Tongs

Presented is a fabulous pair of English Georgian sterling silver sugar nips or tongs. These tongs date to circa 1740-1755. The tongs are done in a simple, classic style, with wide 'hips' and shell form ends. The handles are done in a nice scrolled style. The center section, where the two arms are joined, is monogrammed EA on one side.

This piece is in great overall condition. There are a couple of nicks here and there along the arms of the tongs. The tongs work well, closing tightly enough to grasp firmly. There are no splits, no breaks, no cracks, no monogram removals, and no repairs.

The tongs are hallmarked on the insides of the shell shaped tips, with the English lion passant for sterling silver, a maker's mark which is too indistinct to read, and two other hallmarks, possibly the same hallmarks repeated. Based on the style of the lion passant stamp, this piece dates to around 1740-1755.

The tongs are about 4 3/8 inches long.

This piece weighs 31 grams.

-jm