Large C. 1801 George III Sterling Tray

Description

Rare two handled oval Sterling silver tray with bright cut decoration made in 1801 in London by William Bennett(1772-1825) and … more Rare two handled oval Sterling silver tray with bright cut decoration made in 1801 in London by William Bennett(1772-1825) and retailed by Francis Lambert(1778-1825). Lambert had his silver and jewelry shop at 12 Coventry Street, London. His family owned the firm until 1916. William Bennett, the maker, was a London silversmith working 1796-1825 at 49 Bartholomew Close in London. He was known for trays. The tray has an interesting provenance through ownership and the central engraving dated April 1, 1862. The engraving reads "presented to the Mr. and Mrs. of the 5th landers by Captain Browne, Lieutenant Sadle Inc Cornet Car 1st April 1862."

Regarding the ownership, the tray was sold by Eleanor Hutton, a jeweler and silversmith in 1976 and it was sold and resold five times since then. A comparable tray has been recorded at Christie's. A full provenance is available to the purchaser. The tray is very good age appropriate condition, with small dents and scratches associated with usage over a long period of time. No repairs or restoration. It measures 25" handle to handle and 16" in width, and weighs about 100 ounces. Full hallmarks on the reverse. less