Huge 18" Georgian Salver 1750

This is a huge waiter or tea tray in fantastic original condition. It was made by the finest specialist salver maker of the period, weighs a massive 83.3tr.oz. and measures 18.5" diameter. It has a pie crust border interspersed with bold shell motifs. There are four cast, volute feet. We have left the underside in original tarnished condition, but this could easily be hand polished if required. To the centre is a superbly engraved coat-of-arms described below. A wonderful piece of George II silver.

There are two sets of arms on this waiter tray indicating that this item was likely given as a wedding gift. The main arms are for the family of Eyre with an escutcheon of pretence (small shield in the centre) for the family of Bury. These armorials undoubtedly commemorate the marriage of Anthony Eyre (1727-88) with Judith Bury (1724-1800) in 1755 at Headon in Nottinghamshire. Judith was the great niece and heiress of Sir Hardolph Wasteneys (4th Baronet of Headon). Anthony studied at Christ College Oxford from 1745 and was returned as MP for Boroughbridge between 1774 and 1784.

A full report for these arms and the original owners will be provided for the purchaser of this fine piece.