A handsome pair of unmarked antique salt glaze drinking scene beakers or tumblers in classic brown tones with applied figures. There are three “sprigs” of figures around each cup, rotund men drinking beer (one is accompanied by a dog, another by an owl). Beakers measure 4 1/2" tall x 3 1/2" across rim x 2" at foot.

The Sterling rim bands have British hallmarks: TB over JH for silversmiths Thomas Bradbury and John Henderson, registered Aug, 1878; their date mark “R” is for 1880 to 1888. Sheffield crown assay; Sterling lion; Victoria duty mark.

Both cups are in fine antique condition, with only a few tiny cracks in the sprig figures. The earthy colors are still robust. The interiors have some dark areas on the bottom. There are several dings to the silver rims and some unevenness to the inside edges. The undersides are unmarked, not unusual for pieces from this period. A number companies made wares of this sort (notably the Doulton pottery at Lambeth). There are many subtle variations to the decorations (Mernick Brown Jugs website).