A fine Georgian sterling silver tea strainer, 
of elegant fiddle-pattern form, the shallow circular bowl richly decorated 
with hand-cut pierced work in a combination of crosslets and roundels, 
framed by a scrolling foliate border. 
 
The decoration is executed in the traditional technique of piercing – 
where the metal is delicately sawn and refined to create openwork patterns – 
sometimes referred to in the trade as “bright-cut pierced” or 
“foliate pierced” work, prized for both its refinement and functionality. 
 
The reverse bears a clear set of English hallmarks 
comprising the maker’s mark “WHL”, 
the lion passant denoting sterling standard (92.5% purity), 
together with assay and letter date – 1824  
confirming its authenticity and Georgian period origin. 
 
Total weight: 45.6gr. 
Length: 16.5cm 
 
Tea strainers of this early date are comparatively scarce, 
particularly those retaining crisp piercing and legible marks, 
as their delicate construction made them susceptible to damage and loss. 
 
The refined balance of utility and ornament, 
combined with its survival in such condition, 
renders this an increasingly rare and desirable example 
of Georgian silver tableware.