Birth
Sumptuous items probably intended as Christening or birth presents include a silver-gilt pap boat of 1809, an 1864 silver gilt set (knife, fork, spoon, mug, bowl and plate) with motifs from Canova’s sculptures, and a large silver rattle of 1868.
Layette Pincushion
Layette pincushions like these were once customary presents for a new mother, and were most popular between about 1770 and 1890. They were usually given after the baby had arrived, as there was a superstitious belief that they could increase the pain felt by the mother during birth:
Christening Set
This magnificent christening set is made of silver with a coating of gold. It consists of a matching knife, fork, spoon, cup, plate and bowl, in the original presentation case. The adult size pieces do not seem very appropriate for children, but the set was intended as a future heirloom rather than for a young child's use.
