AN IRISH REPUBLICAN SILVER TWO HANDLED LOVING CUP, mark of William Egan of Cork, the plain ovoid cup with central girdle and twin raised hard handles, on circular spreading foot, the underside...

AN IRISH REPUBLICAN SILVER TWO HANDLED LOVING CUP, mark of William Egan of Cork, the plain ovoid cup with central girdle and twin raised hard handles, on circular spreading foot, the underside inscribed "Made in Cork During the Occupation of the City by the Republican Forces in the Civil War 1922. Barry M. Egan", (c.11 troy ozs). 15.5cm high

During the Irish Civil War (1922-23), the general state of lawlessness and insecurity made it impossible for trade to take place between Cork and the outside world. This meant that firms such as silversmiths William Egan and Sons faced difficulties that threatened their very existence. As Egans could not send their silverware to the Dublin Assay Office, it was suggested by Oliver St. John Gogarty, the Dublin writer and surgeon, that they create a special hallmark distinguishing the work of that particular period. Egans then continued to produce their renowned high quality silverware and for that short period impressed special punches based on Cork's original town marks of a ship between two single towered castles. However the 1922 ship had two masts as opposed to the original three. These unique pieces also had the old style maker's mark of W.E. in Celtic script. In all there are only about 60 to 80 pieces made by Egan and hallmarked with these marks, which go to make up the category known widely as 'Republican Silver'. After the occupation ended in September 1922 Egans destroyed the punches.

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