original text : (Automatic translation)
This rare and outstanding silver gilt tray was created by renowned silversmiths Digby Scott and Benjamin Smith and bears the coat-of-arms are of Lowther, Earl of Lonsdale. Elegantly designed in a highly detailed mythological motif, the tray exhibits artistry of unparalleled beauty and skill. A remarkable openwork pattern of grapevines, leaves and tendrils, Scott and Smith\'s signature, dominates this design, and is joined by the magnificently engraved coat-of-arms and border, as well as beautifully cast feet depicting satyr masked and hoofed feet. Scott and Smith were known for crafting silver for the most affluent members of British society, and this tray represents the high level of skill and artistry achieved by this esteemed partnership.

The partnership of Digby Scott and Benjamin Smith produced some of the greatest silver works of the early 19th century. Scott and Smith jointly ran workshops located in Greenwich, England from 1802 to 1807 and during their brief partnership were the principal suppliers of silver masterpieces to the esteemed firm of Rundell, Bridge & Rundell. At the time London\'s most prestigious firm, these jewelers and silversmiths supplied the official plate ordered by the Lord Chamberlain\'s office, and were the official \"Jeweller, Gold and Silversmiths to the Crown\" from 1798 to 1843. Working in the cusp of the late Georgian and early Regency periods, the works of Scott and Smith often feature elements of the classical revival style such as grapevines and rams\' heads, all crafted in exquisite, sumptuous detail. One of their most renowned collaborative efforts, the Duke of York Baskets, created for Frederick Augustus (1763-1827), second son of George III, is currently on display at the Powerhouse Museum in Australia.

The center coat of arms is joined by the Lonsdale motto \"Magistratus indicat virum,\" or \"The magistracy shows the man.\"

Hallmarked by Digby Scott and Benjamin Smith, London, 1806

Price: $515,000