Rare Cape silver spectacle case marked for Lawrence Twentyman, Circa 1818- 1852. Probably imported by retailed by L H Twentyman engraved with crest and motto of the House of Orange- Nassau and named JE MAINTIENDRAI.
Provenance: The Mary Eleanor Hibbert Collection.
Lawrence Holme Twentyman- Active 1818- 1852
Born on 5 May 1793 in Liverpool, he was the son of John Middleton Twentyman and Phoebe Holme. After leaving school he served an apprenticeship as a clock and watchmaker. He arrived at the Cape on 12 June 1818 aboard the Ann. In his Memorial to the Cape Governor seeking permission to remain at the Cape he described himself as a qualified clock and watchmaker. Married Betsy Burrell on 24 March 1821. Lawrence, his wife and three children were granted a permit to leave the Cape on 8 March 1832. He returned to the Cape for short periods in 1835, 1837, 1844 and in 1846. Died on 8 June 1852 and was buried at Highgate Cemetery.
Dimensions: 13.2 cm long by 4.9 cm wide by 3.2 cm deep.
Weight: 109 grams.