It is a rare treat to be able to re-acquire treasure lost from the Company many years ago, probably in the 1920s. I am delighted that such an opportunity has just arisen, and we were able to purchase a pair of silver pudding trowels given to the Company. Together with a third trowel which remained in the Company’s possession, this set of three was commissioned in 1770 by Henry Wallis (Master), Henry Holland (Upper Warden) and John Watkins (Renter Warden). The third pudding trowel is illustrated in the Company History by Dr Penelope Hunting, “They built London”, on page 139.

The silversmith, William Plummer, was known for his high quality pierced work and had been apprenticed to Edward Aldridge, a very well-regarded maker. Henry Holland (senior) was the father of the Whig architect Henry Holland (junior), had a large brickmaking and building practice based in Fulham, and worked extensively with architect Robert Adam.

The trowels are in exceptional condition and have a length of 11.9 inches and a width, at the widest point, of 4.6 inches. They were recently acquired through the London silver dealer Mary Cooke Antiques from an important large collection of silver trowels.

The trowels are modelled with triangular blades pierced with foliate scroll work and flower heads. The centre displays a vacant circular cartouche and the edge is also engraved with an outer band of stylised foliate designs. The cast handle meets the blade with a double shell moulding and the top of the stem displays beautiful scroll work in relief, on a matted ground.

The reverse displays the arms of the Worshipful Company of Tylers and Bricklayers in addition to the inscription on the stem "The Gift of Mr Henry Wallis Master, Mr Henry Holland Upper Warden, Mr John Watkins Renter Warden 1770".

I am very grateful to Past Master Ian Mitchell Grimshaw for bringing these trowels to the Company’s attention.