Antique Sterling Silver Nursery Rhyme Baby Rattle, Webster Company, 1910

Please note: This piece is an antique collectible and is not intended for use by children.

Our antique rattle was crafted by the Webster Company of North Attleboro, Massachusetts, founded in 1869 by George K. Webster. Made in sterling silver and fitted with a faux mother-of-pearl teething ring (lucite, an early plastic), this charming piece features the old nursery rhyme “Ding Dong Bell.” The rattle carries clear Webster Company marks confirming its sterling silver setting.

 

Though originally intended for use, this rattle is now sold as an antique collectible only and is not suitable for children or practical use. It makes a thoughtful heirloom keepsake, ideal as a symbolic newborn or Christening gift.

 

HISTORY

Ding Dong Bell, also known as Ding Dong Dell, is among the oldest recorded English nursery rhymes. Its first version, noted in 1580 by John Lant, organist of Winchester Cathedral, begins:

“Jacke boy, ho boy newes,

the cat is in the well,

let us ring now for her Knell,

ding dong ding dong Bell.”

The rhyme was later softened for children, as its darker themes of animal cruelty were thought unsuitable in their original form. Shakespeare himself used the phrase “Ding Dong Bell” in his plays, cementing its place in English culture.

 

ERA

Antique, 1910

MARKS

Sterling, ‘Wd’ – Webster Company

MEASUREMENTS

• Ring Diameter: 4.3cm / 1.7”

• Rattle Length: 2.9cm / 1.1”

• Rattle Height: 2.6cm / 1.1”

 

WEIGHT

16.96g

CONDITION

Excellent antique condition.

SKU

8102