These tankards were presented to Thomas Barker, executor of the estate of Alexander Macleay, Colonial Secretary of New South Wales (1825-1837). One has an emu finial on the lid, the other kangaroos. The native flora and fauna perhaps allude to Macleay's interest in natural history.

These tankards were made by Smith and Nicholson in London, 1860-1861.

This tankard was presented to Thomas Barker in 1860-1861.

Wine tankards (2), Australian flora and fauna motifs, silver and wood made by Smith and Nicholson, London, England, presented to Thomas Barker, 1860-1861

Two wine tankards made of silver, decorated with repoussé waratahs and banksias along lower edge and applied with grapevine decoration in relief. The lids have figures of kangaroos and emus with ferns in an elaborate finial. Engraved on side with a coat of arms and the motto 'SI MEREAR PROME'. Inscribed to Thomas Barker. Circular bases of wine tankards are made of wood and painted black . Maker's mark below spout.

Made: Smith and Nicholson; London, England; 1860 - 1861


Owned: Barker, Thomas;

Engraved on side of body 'PRESENTED / TO / THOMAS BARKER ESQ: / BY THE LEGATEES UNDER THE WILL OF / THE LATE ALEXANDER MACLEAY ESQ: / IN GREATFUL ACKNOWLEDGEMENT / OF THE UNWEARIED ASSIDUITY, EXCELLENT MANAGEMENT / AND DISINTERESTEDNESS MANIFESTED BY HIM / AS AN EXECUTOR / UNDER THE ESTATE.'

A3389

1860 - 1861