A set of six George III silver dinner plates, Paul Storr, London, 1797

circular with gadrooned borders, armorial engraved and crested below earl's coronet, five with inventory numbers and scratchweights 25 10=10, 35 18=11, 56 18=6, 75 18=5 and 84 18=7, one with scratchweight only 18=10

George, 4th Earl Cowper (1776-1799), or possibly his brother Peter, 5th Earl Cowper (1778-1837)
By descent to Lady Ethel Desborough (1867-1952), granddaughter of the 6th Earl Cowper, and her husband William, 1st Baron Desborough KG GCVO (1855-1945)
Presumably removed from Panshanger, co. Hertford, and sold Christie's, London, 18 March 1942, as part of lot 94

Surface scratches commensurate with use and age, engraving and hallmarks still clear and in good condition.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The crown which surmounts the arms refers to the status of the Cowpers as Princes of the Holy Empire, a dignity granted by Joseph II while the 3rd Earl Cowper was serving as ambassador in Vienna. His sister was simultaneously serving as Joseph's mistress, which may have played a part in the emperor's decision to declare Lord Cowper the heir, through his mother, of the Princes of Nassau Auverquerque. George III granted use of the Holy Roman title to Lord Cowper and his issue on 19 August 1785.