Pair of Hester Bateman Bright Cut Sugar Tongs, Dated Circa 1784/85, London Assay

Pair of Hester Bateman bright cut sugar tongs, Dated Circa 1784/85, London Assay
Nicely sprung for purpose.
The kings head in an incuse border was introduced in 1784 for duty which had to paid when a silver article was made.
The'incuse' George III duty mark which was only used between December 2nd 1784 and
July 24th 1785, after the introduction of the king's head duty stamp.
The kings head was in an oval shield after that, as were future monarchs.

Made byHester Bateman