The arms are those of Onslow, as borne by Thomas, @nd Earl of Onslow, born in 1754. He succeeded to the earldom in 1814. Universally known as Tom Onslow, he was a well-known eccentric. A contemporary described him thus: "He possessed an infinity of wit if it had not too frequently degenerated into buffoonery". He appears to have cared little for politics but devoted much of his life to driving. Even in the great age of gentleman drivers, his obsession with the sport was thought excessive and his eccentricity was considered too much for him to be elected to the famous Four-in-Hand club.

The Prince of Wales was a great friend of Onslow's and was a regular visitor to Clandon Park, the seat of the Onslows in Surrey which is now the property of the National Trust. In his later years, when he was too old to drive, it is said that the earl would sit in one of the upstairs windows of Clandon, hailing passers-by with ribald remarks. He died in 1827.

Other plates from the same service were sold in these Rooms, April 11, 1995, lot 295-6.