Silver plummet, gift to James Fleming

Scope and Content

Inscribed silver (Glasgow hallmark) plummet in wooden presentation tray.  Inscription reads: 'This plummet was presented to James Fleming, Chairman of Governors by John Morrison: Wright, on the occasion of the laying of the memorial stone of the Glasgow School of Art, May 25 1898.'

Administrative / Biographical History

Robert & William Sorley, Watch and Clock Makers, Jewellers and Silversmiths, 1 Buchanan Street and 136, Argyle Street. This business dates back in its foundation to the year 1840, being originally established by Mr. William Jaffray, who was succeeded by Mr. Robert Sorley. This gentleman purchased the business carried on by the late Mr. Shaw in Gordon Street, and amalgamated the two, which have been successfully carried on under the title of Messrs. Robert & William Sorley, and forming one of the largest and most influential high-class jewellery and silversmith’s establishments in this city.A leading speciality of this firm is the manufacture of gold badges and chains, and their stock of diamonds and old silver plate and antiques. The firm also take charge of all the large clocks in the city for regulation, cleaning, &c., and have a first-class connection throughout the west of Scotland.(Source : www.glasgowwestaddress.co.uk (Index of firms, 1888)

Acquisition Information

Given to GSoA by Miss Fleming of Skelmorlie, great niece of James Fleming, in the 1990s,. This gift came about thanks to the encouragement of Dugald Cameron, Director of GSoA, who was a neighbour of Miss Fleming.

Note

Robert & William Sorley, Watch and Clock Makers, Jewellers and Silversmiths, 1 Buchanan Street and 136, Argyle Street. This business dates back in its foundation to the year 1840, being originally established by Mr. William Jaffray, who was succeeded by Mr. Robert Sorley. This gentleman purchased the business carried on by the late Mr. Shaw in Gordon Street, and amalgamated the two, which have been successfully carried on under the title of Messrs. Robert & William Sorley, and forming one of the largest and most influential high-class jewellery and silversmith’s establishments in this city.A leading speciality of this firm is the manufacture of gold badges and chains, and their stock of diamonds and old silver plate and antiques. The firm also take charge of all the large clocks in the city for regulation, cleaning, &c., and have a first-class connection throughout the west of Scotland.(Source : www.glasgowwestaddress.co.uk (Index of firms, 1888)

Physical Characteristics and/or Technical Requirements

Wood and silver
Dimensions: 30 x 180 x 150 mm (in wooden presentation tray)

Additional Information

Published