A remarkable matching pair of early 18th-century European pewter plates, each bearing a clearly dated 1708 touchmark and a striking group of historic maker’s and quality stamps.
Sourced in Northern Italy, the plates measure approximately 8.75 inches in diameter and weigh 361 grams each. Their substantial construction, broad rims, deeply aged surfaces, and exceptionally interesting marks give the pair considerable presence and collector appeal.
The underside of each plate bears a distinctive cluster of three deeply struck touchmarks. The marks include the initials “G A K” together with the date “1708,” as well as a figural device that appears to depict Justice holding scales. An additional shield-shaped mark incorporates a rampant lion motif.
The repeated date and matching hallmark configuration on both plates make this an especially compelling surviving pair of early European pewter.
The front rim of each plate is additionally engraved in period cursive script with what appears to read “M. in W.” This is most likely an historic ownership or inventory inscription, adding another layer of provenance and evidence of long household use.
Both plates retain a beautiful dark gray pewter patina with oxidation, scratches, utensil marks, and surface wear accumulated over more than three centuries. They have been left unpolished, preserving the naturally aged character of the metal and the definition of the original marks.
Their relatively modest 8.75-inch scale makes them particularly versatile for display, whether hung as a pair, incorporated into a larger pewter gallery wall, displayed in a cabinet, or used as sculptural accents in a collected European interior.
A rare opportunity to acquire a matched pair of explicitly dated early-18th-century pewter plates with unusually strong surviving touchmarks.
Details
Origin: Continental Europe; sourced in Northern Italy
Material: Pewter / tin alloy
Date: 1708, as struck in the touchmarks
Period: Early 18th century / Baroque
Marks: “G A K,” dated “1708,” figural Justice-style touchmark, and shield with rampant lion
Inscription: Hand-engraved “M. in W.” or similar historic ownership inscription
Quantity: Pair
Dimensions — Each
Diameter: 8.75 in / approx. 22.2 cm
Weight: 361 g / approx. 12.7 oz
Condition
Good antique condition for pieces dating to 1708. Both retain extensive historic patina, oxidation, scratches, utensil marks, surface wear, and age-related irregularities. Unpolished. Please review photographs closely, particularly the touchmarks and engraved inscriptions, as they form an important part of the description.