The distinctive style of Hillan's rococo decoration suggests a Northern European origin. Arthur Grimwade remarks "From the uncertainty of spelling attached to his name, he looks to have been an immigrant, perhaps Scandinavian in origin. " (The London Goldsmiths, 1697-1837, new ed. 1982, p. 546). A silver-gilt cream jug by the same was sold in these Rooms, October 21, 1993, lot 534.