posted 10-30-2000 02:41 AM              

For years, I have been trying to find information on Shaw and Berry. I have a very impressive sterling silver tilting teakettle with stand and burner. It is of good weight and very rococo. I was told it is hand forged. It is marked Shaw and Berry, Sterling and has a mark that I cannot read due to it not being clear. I have asked several dealers in silver and none could help me other than being highly impressed with the piece. I have wondered if it could be a name of a jewelry company on the caliber of Tiffany. I am almost certain it was made in the 19th Century. The mark almost looks like a cross at the top of a shield but not sure. It may be a sword behind the shield with the sword tip showing beneath. This is purely a wild guess. Any help would be most appreciated.

posted 10-31-2000 08:17 PM              

Thanks very much for your reply. I am enclosing a picture of the kettle and another of the marks.

Thanks, again.

Scott

posted 10-31-2000 08:20 PM              

I meant to mention that on the stand there are hand written (scratched in) letters R N X G Y (or X, not sure) and 35-6.

There is no hallmark on the stand - only the kettle. There is "sterling" on all three pieces including burner. I don't know if you can see the ivory mounts at the handle of the kettle though the picture is fairly clear. I hope this helps.

posted 10-31-2000 09:42 PM            

The Durgin company was located in Concord, NH, from 1853 to 1931, when they moved to Providence, RI. Gorham assumed control of Durgin in 1905.

The Durgin company was a very accomplished firm, although they have little recognition today. Your fine kettle-on-stand is certainly something they could have produced. Shaw & Berry were the retailers of this piece; an investigation of jewelers in your area might turn up more information on them.

Hope this helps!