Antique Mr Punch Smokers Companions in Silver

A pair of characterful Victorian silver Mr Punch smokers companions by Barnard, London (1896). By the late 19th-century the smoking room was an essential feature of the country house. Created as a comical talking point each of these figures portray the legendary Mr Punch who was a well-known comedy figure portrayed in street puppet theatres during this time. He was also featured on the first front cover of the satirical Punch magazine, which was hugely influential during the second half of the 19th-century. Expertly detailed both figures depict Punch standing positioned with a quill in one hand and ink pot in the other. Hinged hat sections enable one figure to hold matches (striker to base), and the other to act as a lighter. Hallmarked for London (1896) this duo was created by the well-known maker Edward Barnard & Sons Limited. Widely collected today by devotees of decorative Victorian silverware pieces bearing the Barnard makers mark are known for quality and finesse.