A Large Victorian silver presentation six-light centerpiece, J. & N. Creswick, London, 1853

the monumental triform base applied at each corner with a seated figure above scrolling foliage, further applied with two plaques, one inscribed with a presentation inscription, the other applied with the arms of the recipient, the third side fitted with a model of the Victoria Bridge, Glasgow, in miniature, the central stem rising to three detachable bifurcated branches complete with sconces and detachable cylindrical nozzles (three unmarked replacements) and central screw-in basket

Overall good, crisp condition and marks good. One of the branches appears to have had a small hard solder repair at the base junction with its fitting but is sound. At leat three of the sleever nozzles are unmarked modern replacements.
"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 inscription reads: 'PRESENTED TO William York Esqr by a few friends as an expression of their high estimate of his character & worth as a private gentleman, as deacon, convener of the trades house, as a member of the city council and as the successful builder of VICTORIA BRIDGE Glasgow 1854.'
The foundation stone of the Victoria Bridge, Glasgow, was laid on 9 April 1851. For a full report, see Supplement to The Glasgow Herald, Friday, 11 April 1851.

The arms are those York impaling Masterton for William York who was born in 1799 and married Janet Masterton (d. 1866) at Barony, Lanarkshire, on 11 July 1819. Mr York was a successful Glaswegian builder who oversaw the construction of several of the city's most important buildings, including The Customs House (1838-1839), The Bank of Scotland (1849) and the Victoria Bridge (1851-1854). He died on 17 August 1865 and is interred in the Necropolis, Glasgow.