John Boddington

A William III silver Toilet Service, London 1699

Weight without mirror, pin cushion and brush backs: 3,840 grams (123oz 12dwt)

Comprising:

Oblong casket: 27.3cm, 10 inches wide
Pair of boxes and covers: 13.7cm, 5 inches diameter
Pair of boxes and covers: 9.2cm, 3 inches diameter
Pair of rectangular scent bottle cases: 16.8cm, 6 inches high
Pair of oval hair brush backs: 9.2cm, 3 inches wide
Oblong pin cushion: 18.4cm, 7 inches long
Dressing table mirror: 68.5cm, 27 inches high

The arms are those of Button impaling Bennet for Sir John Button 4th and last Bt (d.1712) of Tockenham Court, Lyneham and Ogbourne St Mary, Wiltshire who succeeded his brother about 1679 and married Mary, daughter of Thomas Bennet of Salthorp, Wiltshire. His wife predeceased him and on his death the Baronetcy became extinct. (Complete Baronetage, Vol I, p.193) Their niece Martha Bennet, married Peter Legh of the Lyme, Cheshire and their grand-daughter Elizabeth Anne Keck married Thomas Calley.

These pieces, which would originally have formed part of a large toilet service, have clean lines and a subtle patination; despite their considerable age they have a remarkably contemporary feel. The crisp gadrooning of the borders contrasts with the reflective qualities of the flat burnished surfaces lending these pieces great charm and individuality.