This pair of Tongs have been attributed to Thomas Hannam & Richard Mills, however this makers mark is not certain. Thomas Hannam had a apprenticeship under the famous Candlestick Maker John Cafe, Hannam is recorded as having once being in partnership with Ebeneezer Coker. Richard Mills first mark was entered as a Largeworker on the 14th July 1755, address White Horse Alley, Cow Cross. If however the attributation is correct then these Tongs can be dated 1765
These cast Tongs are unusual as they have solid cast arms, and maybe could be described as the forerunner in the next stage of Sugar Tong development ?
These are a very attractive pair of Tongs with excellent detail, the casting was first class, and shows good skills of the siversmiths.