A George III silver-gilt tray, Digby Scott & Benjamin Smith, retailed by Rundell, Bridge & Rundell, London, 1806

on four bacchanalian mask and goat's hoof feet, cast openwork grapevine border, the underside stamped RUNDELL BRIDGE ET RUNDELL AURIFICES REGIS ET PRINCIPIS WALLIAE LONDINI FECERUNT

Leaves, grapes, tendrils, &c of border, handles and supports are well defined; but one leaf has been split. The gilding is rather pale and less strong over most of the surface of the tray, which appears to have been buffed (possibly to removed small dents/scratches). Marks are good.
"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 arms are those of Lowther impaling Fane below a baron's coronet, for Sir William Lowther, 2nd Bt, who successed to the title upon the death of his father in 1788. He, who was born in 1757 and married in 1781 Augusta (d. 1838), eldest daughter of John Fane, 9th Earl of Westmorland, was created Earl of Lonsdale on 7 April 1807. He died on 19 March 1844.

The silver from Lowther Castle belonging to the Earls of Lonsdale was sold at Christie's, London, on 19 and 20 February 1947. The collection included the Earl of Lonsdale's copy of the Shield of Achilles (Rundell, Bridge & Rundell), which is now at Anglesey Abbey.