This is an exceptionally beautiful fish server, made by William Adby, a London silversmith in 1782. The server is pierced and etched with multiple fish represented amongst swirling foliate scrolls and enclosed by fine brightwork. At the bottom near the handle is a heraldic holly tree. No monogram. The handle is original and likely carved from oxbone, with natural graining visible. The reverse also contains detailed etching, making the server beautiful from all angles. Hallmarked on reverse, with Maker’s Mark partially obscured. Examination under microscope supports attribution.

The fish server measures approximately 12 inches long, and is 2 3/8 inches at its widest point. It weighs approximately 152 ounces or 5 3/8 ounces (including handle). There are two cracks to the handle from where it attaches to the server.

William Abdy was a London-based silversmith, active between 1752 and 1790. His son, William Abdy II, entered his first mark in 1790 shortly after his father’s death. Silver pieces by William Abdy and his son William Abdy II are present in the collection of prestigious museums, including the Victoria and Albert Museum in London and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.

The item(s) are antique and sold as is/as found unless otherwise noted. Because they are old, they were used and will not look new or new-like. They likely show wear, fading, scratches, chips, cracks, past repair/restoration, original imperfections and/or damage from normal use. Significant issues are shown in photos. Examine photos carefully as they are part of the description. Imperfections were factored into pricing. No returns or refunds.

Items sold for $100 or more may be shipped with insurance and signature requirement. No responsibility for loss, theft or damage that occurs AFTER your purchase has been delivered to the address you have provided. Any damage to purchase must be reported immediately and photos provided of both the exterior of the box and the damaged item to facilitate the filing of a claim.