An early to mid-19^th century unmarked silver beaker, possibly Indian Colonial circa 1820-50

Of tapering cylindrical form with incised concentric rings to rim, the side engraved with a crest of a serpent nowed, therefrom issuant a dexter arm embowed in armour the hand grasping a short sword. Gilt interior.

Height – 9.2 cm / 9.6 inches

Weight – 148 grams / 4.76 ozt

The crest is for Merrimen

Burkes General Armory states that this crest was confirmed 21^st December 1833 to Samuel Merriman (1771–1852), Esq., M.D., of Rodbourne Cheney, co. Wilts., and to the descendants of his grandfather, Nathaniel Merriman, Esq., of Marlborough.

Collection of Anthony Aston Smith (1929-2010)