A James II silver cup and cover, maker's mark IM in a dotted surround (Jackson p. 137), London, 1685

cylindrical with domed cover and foot, chased with alternate plain and matted bands, the body engraved with armorials and with a Tudor rose, inscribed The guift of John Carwardon of the Rose Inn Holborn Bridge 1687, warrior finial

The arms are those of Carwardine of co. Essex and co. Hertford quartering another for John Carwardon [sic].  He was probably descended from Sir Thomas Carwarden, who had been made Master of the Revels to Henry VIII in 1545.

Marked on body and foot, cover with repair at base of finial where engraved line has caused a weakness, no apparent mark on the cover but matting identical with body, good clear marks, reasonably crisp engraved inscription and arms; nice cup.
"This lot is offered for sale subject to Sotheby's Conditions of Business, which are available on request and printed in Sotheby's sale catalogues. The independent reports contained in this document are provided for prospective bidders' information only and without warranty by Sotheby's or the Seller."

The Rose Inn at Holborn Bridge, which crossed the now-subterranean Fleet River, was one of the most important terminals for carriers (as opposed to coaches) bringing goods to London from the west of the country. The inn served west country towns such as Blandford, Dorchester and Exeter.