Paten
Marked RT
Hallmarked London, 1692 

This exceptional paten showcases an intriguing blend of Elizabethan style with 17th-century craftsmanship and historical symbolism. The paten is designed to be stored upside down on the communion cup, doubling as a cover, a traditional feature in Catholic Mass. The striking coat of arms it bears references the enduring legacy of the Bacon family, whose notable members include the renowned philosopher and statesman, Francis Bacon. The arms displayed on this item are notably similar to those on cups commissioned by Sir Nicholas Bacon in 1574 for his sons.

Visually, the paten features a short pedestal with a splayed rim, showcasing fine craftsmanship. The armorial engraving at the center is a complex and impressive composition, recalling the influence of the Bacon family’s prestigious legacy. The arms themselves are a combination of the Bacon quartered with Quapladde and impaling Butts, along with several other coats of arms, including those of Buers, Eversey, Gilpin or O’Malley and Reydne or Rowdon. The style of the engraving echoes the intricate designs found in Elizabethan silverwork.

The Bacon family, one of the most illustrious in English history, played an instrumental role in British politics and philosophy. Sir Nicholas Bacon, Lord Keeper of the Great Seal for Queen Elizabeth I, and his half-brother, the philosopher Francis Bacon, are key figures in the shaping of English governance and intellectual thought. The presence of their coat of arms on this paten not only serves as a reminder of their prominence but also reflects the enduring prominence of the Bacon family throughout British history. More recently, this paten was also part of the iconic Red McCombs collection, which has been highly publicized and studied.

1 1/2" high x 6 1/2" diameter

Provenance:
M.S. Rau, New Orleans
Red McCombs Collection, Texas
M.S. Rau, New Orleans