A mid-18th century George III silver Channel Islands twin handled cup, Guernsey circa 1760 by Pierre Maingy (born c. 1718, active c.1755/1775)

A mid-18th century George III silver Channel Islands twin handled cup, Guernsey circa 1760 by Pierre Maingy (born c. 1718, active c.1755/1775)

Of rounded circular form upon a spreading circular foot, with an everted caulked rim, the applied twin C scroll handles with beaded decoration. Engraved to the side with contemporaneous initials MTD in Roman script. Marked underneath with maker’s mark PM twice.

Length – 11.8 cm / 4.7 inches

Weight – 97 grams / 3.12 ozt

The son of Pierre Maingy, tailor, born circa 1718, he was apprenticed in 1732 to John Swift of London, qv. as was John de Gruchy II of Jersey. There is no evidence that he completed his apprenticeship, but the quality of his work is evidence of his ability. He was established in business in Guernsey by 1755, by which time William Arnell, related to him in some way. Dated pieces suggest that he remained in business until 1775.