ANTIQUE | 1849 Victorian Sterling Silver Frame London Hallmarks Robert Cottle

Offered is an exceptional mid-Victorian solid sterling silver photograph frame, hallmarked in London in 1849 and bearing the maker’s mark “RC” for Robert Cottle, a respected 19th-century English silversmith. This piece was produced during the earliest era of photography and was originally intended for carte-de-visite / cabinet card portraits. It features a richly detailed repoussé border with beaded inner edge and an unengraved shield cartouche at the top. Unlike later examples, this frame retains its original velvet-covered wood backing with hand-cut brass swivel tabs — construction consistent with high-quality London silver from the mid-1800s. Hallmarks: • RC – Robert Cottle • Lion Passant – Sterling Silver (.925) • Leopard Head – London Assay Office • Date Letter “O” – 1849 Details: • Solid sterling silver face • Original velvet back and glass • Circa 1849, Victorian England • Heavy, high-quality early photographic frame •Weight: 270 grams (complete with glass & original backing. Approximate silver content only is unknown as the original wood back and glass are intact.) Measurements: 5.5 x 7.25 Holds a 4 x 6 Photo Condition: Antique pre-owned condition with original patina and light surface wear consistent with over 170 years of age. Retains the original velvet-covered wood backing, glass, and brass swivel tabs. There is a slight bend to the top right edge of the silver frame, consistent with age; this does not affect display or function. No splits or cracks observed