Ask any silver collector to name a British classic, and Mappin & Webb silver will almost certainly top the list. Known for its artistry, heritage, and royal connections, it remains one of the most admired names in antique and fine silver today.
Founded in Sheffield in 1775, the company grew from a modest family workshop into an internationally recognised brand celebrated for its craftsmanship, innovation, and timeless design.
From ornate Victorian tea services to sleek Art Deco barware, Mappin & Webb has reflected the evolving tastes of generations while maintaining a standard of excellence worthy of the Crown.
In this week’s blog, we explore the history of Mappin & Webb Silver and why it’s one of Britain’s most enduring names in fine silverware.
History of Mappin & Webb Silver
Mappin & Webb Silver began with silversmith Jonathan Mappin, who opened a small workshop in Sheffield, then the heart of England’s cutlery and silver industry. His skill quickly earned him a reputation for quality, and his descendants carried on the trade under the name Mappin Brothers Ltd., producing refined silverware for an emerging middle class eager for elegance at the table.
In 1860, John Mappin, the youngest of Jonathan’s descendants, branched out to form his own company, Mappin & Co. Two years later, he partnered with his brother-in-law George Webb, and by 1868, the firm became known as Mappin & Webb.
Their London flagship on Oxford Street brought the brand to the centre of British society, and from there, the business flourished.
The Royal Connection & Mappin & Webb Silver
By the late 19th century, Mappin & Webb had become a household name across Britain. Its silver was refined yet accessible, admired by aristocrats and embraced by the growing middle class.
In 1897, the company received its first Royal Warrant from Queen Victoria, officially recognising it as a silversmith to the Crown.
Over the following century, Mappin & Webb would serve five successive monarchs, producing presentation pieces, ceremonial silver, and fine jewellery.
That royal connection continues today as Mappin & Webb holds the title of Crown Jeweller, entrusted with maintaining and preparing the British Crown Jewels. It’s an honour that reflects both tradition and trust, placing the company in a class few silversmiths have ever achieved.
Top Patterns and Collections Of Defined Mappin & Webb Silver
Throughout the decades, Mappin & Webb Silver has produced designs that strike a balance between beauty and practicality, each reflecting the style of its time. Among its most notable collections:
Prince’s Plate (introduced c.1870s–1880s)
This line was Mappin & Webb’s response to the growing middle-class appetite for affordable luxury. The company trademarked “Prince’s Plate” in the late 19th century, utilizing high-quality electroplating on nickel silver to create pieces that mimicked sterling silver. It remained one of the firm’s most successful product lines well into the early 20th century.
Kenwood Pattern (first introduced c.1920s)
The Kenwood design appeared in the interwar years, reflecting neoclassical restraint popular during the late Edwardian and early Art Deco periods. Its elegant curves and balanced proportions make it a perennial favourite among collectors of early 20th-century British flatware.
Pembury Pattern (c.1930s–1940s)
A more modernist pattern with understated lines and gentle fluting, Pembury reflects the streamlined aesthetic of the 1930s. It became particularly popular in postwar dining sets, appealing to buyers who wanted refinement without excess.
Sovereign Pattern (introduced c.1950s)
This mid-century design featured smooth surfaces and generous weight, reflecting a return to classic forms after the austerity of the war years.
Sandringham Pattern (introduced c.1960s)
Slightly more contemporary than Sovereign, Sandringham blended clean lines with subtle decorative touches, capturing the quiet luxury that defined mid-century British tableware.
Candelabra, Trays, and Tea Services (spanning c.1880s–1950s)
These signature pieces evolved alongside Mappin & Webb silver's stylistic shifts—from highly ornamented Victorian repoussé work to sleek Art Deco silhouettes. Their craftsmanship and condition often determine collector value today.
These collections embody the brand’s ability to evolve with changing tastes while preserving the artistry and precision that define British silversmithing.
Identifying Genuine Mappin & Webb Silver
For collectors, identifying authentic Mappin & Webb silver pieces is part of the pleasure. Genuine examples often include:
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Maker’s marks such as “Mappin & Webb Ltd.” or “Mappin & Webb London.” or M&P
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Silverplate markings from the renowned Prince’s Plate line.
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Hallmarks showing Sheffield or London assay marks with date letters indicating the year of production.
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Refined craftsmanship—Mappin & Webb pieces are known for their balance, polish, and durability.
Why Collectors Still Treasure Mappin & Webb Silver
What keeps Mappin & Webb Silver so desirable is its unique combination of royal prestige, historical depth, and enduring beauty. Whether it’s a Victorian tea service, a gleaming mid-century tray, or a Deco-era cocktail shaker, each piece reflects a chapter in the evolution of British taste and craftsmanship.
Though Mappin & Webb now focuses primarily on fine jewellery, its silver heritage remains a cornerstone of the brand—a reminder of a time when artistry and everyday living were beautifully intertwined.
Discover Mappin & Webb at Around the Block
At Around the Block, we’re proud to feature sterling silver tableware and decor from the top silver brands and most respected makers, including Ercuis, Gorham, Puiforcat, and Christofle.
We invite you to explore a portion of our silver collection online or drop by our Lesmill Road shop to see our complete consignment inventory of fine silver tableware, jewelry, and decor.
