Drakes Silversmiths

This serving trolley is showing signs of regular use. The brass is tarnished and has lost colour from years of cleaning. The top tier is faded in colour. Would benefit from a thorough clean. Gallery inspection is recommended.
"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."

Drakes Silversmiths Ltd of 49 Brewer Street, London, W1, was a firm of hotel and restaurant silver plate furnishers, supplying meat wagons, etc., to domestic and foreign markets. In 1964 John Fuller described them as, ‘A family firm who specialise in restaurant equipment and plating, often recondition catering and table equipment of all kinds.’ (Guéridon and Lamp Cookery: A Complete Guide to Side-table and Flambé Service, London, 1964, p.11). The business was subsequently renamed Drakes Hotelware Ltd and moved its headquarters to 140 High Street, Edgware, but appears to have been dissolved by the mid-1980s.