A RARE GEORGE II SILVER GILT FREEDOM BOX FOR THE CITY OF COR...

Hammer

€4,800

A RARE GEORGE II SILVER GILT FREEDOM BOX FOR THE CITY OF CORK, Cork c.1750, maker's mark of George Hodder, of circular form with detachable lid, the lid decorated with the arms of Cork City within a rocaille border (c.3.5 troy ozs). 8cm diameter The practice of presenting Freedom boxes to individuals was popular in the 18th Century, particularly in Ireland, in which visiting dignitaries were bestowed with the Honorary Freedom of the City. They were engraved with the city’s coat of arms as in this example with the motto of, Statio Benefida Carinis, Safe Harbour for Ships. Usually a Freedom scroll was enclosed within the engraved box, although with the circular shape of this present example it is possible that no such item was included. Livery companies and guilds also followed the practice gifting the boxes to newly appointed Freemasons.