A George III Silver Jug, by Daniel Smith and Robert Sharp, London, 1781, slightly baluster, chased with staves and with a beak-form spout, with angular scroll handle, 15cm high, 26oz 10dwt

The partnership of Daniel Smith and Robert Sharp, which began in 1763, must have been regarding for producing high quality silver as, by 1766, they were known to be making plate for Parker and Wakelin. The firm had various address in London during the second half of the 18th century, including Aldermanbury, not far from the Worshipful Company of Goldsmiths and at 14 Westmoreland Buildings, Aldersgate Street. Besides good quality plate such as the present jug, the partnership was known for producing racing trophies, such as one of 1770 designed by Robert Adam and won by the Marquess of Zetland (see R. Rowe, Adam Silver 1765-1795, London, 1965, plates 7, 8 and 9).

Daniel Smith was the son of William Smith of Hawick, Cumberland and was apprenticed to Thomas Gladwin, becoming free in 1753 and a liveryman in 1765. Robert Sharp was the son of another Robert Sharp of Newcastle upon Tyne and was also apprenticed to Thomas Gladwin, becoming free in 1757.