Some pieces of silver are admired because they are rare. Others because they are beautifully made. This exceptional H.G. Murphy solid silver wine taster, hallmarked London 1935, has both qualities — and something more besides. It carries the unmistakable artistic identity of the Falcon Studio, with Murphy’s celebrated Tree of Life handle and a beautifully hand-hammered bowl.
This is not simply a silver wine taster. It is a piece of 20th-century British silversmithing history.
A Rare Wine Taster by H.G. Murphy
Henry George Murphy, known as H.G. Murphy, is one of the most important British silversmiths of the early 20th century. His work is highly sought after by collectors for its strong design, handmade character and distinctive blend of Arts & Crafts and early modernist influence.
This silver wine taster was made at Murphy’s famous Falcon Studio and is hallmarked London 1935, with both the HGM maker’s mark and the Falcon Studio mark. These marks give the piece excellent provenance and confirm it as a genuine example of Murphy’s work.
The Iconic Tree of Life Handle
The most striking feature of this wine taster is its pierced Tree of Life handle. This motif is closely associated with Murphy’s work and remains one of his most recognisable and collectable designs.
The Tree of Life is a powerful symbol of growth, renewal, strength and continuity. In this piece, it gives the wine taster a deeper sense of meaning, transforming it from a functional tasting vessel into a beautifully symbolic object.
The pierced handle also creates a wonderful contrast with the smooth circular form of the bowl, adding delicacy, movement and visual interest.
Hand-Hammered Silver with Real Presence
The bowl is hand-hammered throughout, giving the silver a subtle textured surface that catches the light beautifully. This finish is one of the great pleasures of handmade silver. It reveals the touch of the maker and gives the piece a warmth that machine-made silver rarely achieves.
At 136 grams, or approximately 4.8 ounces, this is a substantial wine taster. It feels important in the hand, with a reassuring weight and quality that reflect Murphy’s craftsmanship.
The proportions are also excellent, measuring 10 cm in diameter excluding the handle, or 15 cm including the handle, with a height of 2.5 cm.
Specifications
Maker: H.G. Murphy, Falcon Studio
Hallmark: London, 1935
Marks: HGM maker’s mark and Falcon Studio mark
Material: Solid silver
Design: Hand-hammered wine taster with pierced Tree of Life handle
Diameter: 10 cm excluding handle
Overall Width: 15 cm including handle
Height: 2.5 cm
Weight: 136 grams / approx. 4.8 oz
Condition: Excellent, carefully preserved
Why This H.G. Murphy Wine Taster Is Special
This piece brings together many of the qualities collectors most value in Murphy’s silver:
Made by H.G. Murphy, one of Britain’s great 20th-century silversmiths
Falcon Studio mark, confirming its prestigious origin
London 1935 hallmark, placing it within Murphy’s mature period
Tree of Life handle, an iconic Murphy motif
Hand-hammered solid silver, showing authentic craftsmanship
Substantial weight and size, giving it real presence
Excellent condition, carefully preserved and ready to enjoy
It is rare, distinctive and highly collectable — a piece with genuine character and importance.
A Wine Taster with History and Symbolism
Traditionally, a wine taster was used to examine the colour, clarity and aroma of wine. Its shallow bowl allowed the wine to be viewed easily, especially by candlelight, while the handle made it practical to hold and use.
In Murphy’s hands, this traditional form becomes something far more artistic. The hammered bowl gives the piece texture and depth, while the Tree of Life handle adds symbolism and design strength. It is both functional and sculptural.
Ideal for Collectors of Arts & Crafts and Art Deco Silver
H.G. Murphy’s work appeals strongly to collectors of both Arts & Crafts silver and Art Deco silver. His pieces often combine handmade texture with bold, simplified form, making them highly distinctive within British silver design.
This wine taster is a superb example of that crossover. It has the honest hand-worked quality of Arts & Crafts silver, but also the clarity and confidence of early modernist design.
For a collector of Falcon Studio silver, this is a particularly desirable piece.
A Distinguished Gift for a Wine or Silver Enthusiast
Although this is a serious collector’s item, it would also make a remarkable gift. The combination of wine, silver, symbolism and craftsmanship gives it wide appeal.
It would be especially suitable for:
A wine enthusiast
A collector of British silver
An Arts & Crafts admirer
A milestone birthday
A retirement gift
A wedding or anniversary present
A special presentation gift
The Tree of Life handle makes it especially meaningful for occasions connected with family, growth, legacy and celebration.
Final Thoughts
This antique H.G. Murphy solid silver wine taster, made at the Falcon Studio and hallmarked London 1935, is a rare and beautiful example of British silversmithing at its finest.
With its substantial hand-hammered bowl, iconic pierced Tree of Life handle, clear HGM and Falcon Studio marks, and excellent preserved condition, it represents everything that makes Murphy’s work so collectable: craftsmanship, originality, symbolism and quiet artistic strength.
For collectors of H.G. Murphy silver, Falcon Studio silver, Arts & Crafts silver or fine English wine accessories, this is an exceptional piece.
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