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Aldwinckle & Slater

A Victorian Stirrup Cup Modelled as a Retriever

Aldwinckle & Slater

A Victorian Stirrup Cup Modelled as a Retriever

Makers' marks of John Aldwinckle and Thomas Slater
London, 1887

Length: 14,5 cm, 57 inches
Diameter: 8 cm, 3,1 inches
Weight: 460 g, 16oz
 

Of German origins, but of solid diffusion in the late 18th and 19th century, antique silver stirrup cups are a drinking vessel presented to riders on horseback prior to leaving or arriving home from a hunt; this happened whilst their feet remained in their stirrups, hence the fascinating name. 

Because of their small capacity and the absence of a base and of a handle, stirrup cups were exceptionally comfortable to be held while riding. 

Early stirrup cups were essentially wine glasses without a base. However, their popularity grew, and the stirrup cups started to be crafted in shapes relevant to the hunt, such as a hound or fox head. 
 

Silversmith Henry Holland established the company in 1838. In 1880 Henry Holland senior retired and a new mark was entered by John Aldwinckle and James Slater establishing the firm ‘Holland, Son & Slater’. In 1883, Henry Holland junior also retired and the firm renamed itself Aldwinckle & Slater. The firm was run by John Aldwinckle, James Slater, Alfred Thomas Slater and Walter Brindley Slater. The company continued to operate under its own name until 1932.


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Aldwinkle & Slater