Lot Essay
Thomas Herbert was the third son of Philip, 5th Earl of Pembroke, and his second wife Catherine Villiers, and succeeded his brother, Philip the 7th Earl, in 1683. He held many high offices of State, including that of Lord High Admiral in 1702 and 1709, the only commoner to do so. In 1700 he was created a Knight of the Garter. Lord Pembroke carried the Sword of State at five Coronations (a record) - those of James II, William and Mary, Ann, George I and George II.