Antique Silver William III Teardrop Nutmeg Grater

This is a wonderful item: An antique solid sterling silver "teardrop" Nutmeg Grater, dating from the reign of William III. These pocket graters became popular in the 1690s and this one will date c1690-95. The top is decorated with a stylised tulip, the bottom with a naive Tudor Rose motif, each with an engraved rim. The tulip motif became popular during this period, as William of Orange had taken the throne of England, as William III, with his wife Queen Mary II. There is a small capital 'T' engraved on one side of the centre section. It is two-ended, one end containing the actual grater, the other a storage section for the whole nutmeg. Both of the hinges good. The maker's mark of Ia is on the inside of both lids. As can be seen from the pictures, it has a few bruises but that's hardly surprising given it's age. A fabulous piece of history.