A SET OF TWELVE REGENCY SILVER DINNER PLATES FROM THE ONSLOW SERVICE

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A SET OF TWELVE REGENCY SILVER DINNER PLATES FROM THE ONSLOW SERVICE
MAKER'S MARK OF PAUL STORR, LONDON, 1812

Shaped circular, the gadrooned rim with anthemion, shells and foliate scrolls at intervals, engraved with armorials, marked on reverses--10 1/2in. (26.7cm.) diam.
(294oz. 10dwt., 9171gr.) (12)

Lot Essay

The arms are those of Onslow, probably as borne by Thomas, 2nd Earl of Onslow, born in 1754, who 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 gentlemen 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. "His horses were said to be the best in the country. They were coal-black, as was his carriage, and his whole turnout presented a most funereal appearance" (Pamela, Countess of Onslow, "The Family" in Clandon Park, 1983, p.49).

The Prince of Wales was a great friend of the Earl and was a regular visitor to Clandon Park, his house in Surrey which is now the property of the National Trust. In his later years, when 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.