A pair of George III Onslow pattern basting spoons, Hester Bateman, London 1782

Notes

Hester Bateman is celebrated as one of the most prominent female silversmiths of the 18th century, whose work is highly sought after by collectors worldwide. Hester took over her late husband's workshop in 1760, a transition that marked the beginning of a successful and influential career. Her skill as a silversmith, coupled with her keen business acumen, helped her navigate a male-dominated industry in the 18^th Century. By the 1770s, her reputation was growing, and her work became more valued.

Hester Bateman's hallmark is a mark that significantly increases the value of her work, and her pieces are considered some of the finest examples of Georgian silver. These spoons are a perfect reflection of the elegance and artistry that define Bateman's legacy. The desirability of her work continues to endure, and her influence on silver remains a lasting testament to her pioneering role as a female silversmith.