A Dutch silver-gilt two handle basket, Willem Langebeke, Middleburg, 1770

the pierced and chased trellis sides with embellished foliate rims and handles, the base later chased with a hunting scene depicting hounds attacking a stag in woodland, in the manner of Edward Farrell, later engraved with a Duke's coronet opposite the cypher 'AF' and a marquis' coronet opposite the initial 'B'

Prince Augustus Frederick, Duke of Sussex (1773-1843)

Hallmarks distorted and difficult to decipher within later chasing. The whole later re-gilded. Otherwise 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 engraved cypher is that of Augustus Frederick, Duke of Sussex and the 6th son of George III. In 1831 he married his second wife Lady Cecilia Letitia Buggin, the widow of Sir George Buggin and daughter of 2nd Earl of Arran. The Duke served as President of the Society of Arts in 1816 and as President of the Royal Society from 1830-38. A renowned collector, especially of theological books, the Duke's possessions were sold by auction over twenty-three days in July 1844.

The later chasing to the base of the basket was almost certainly executed between 1830-40 and probably in the workshop of Edward Farrell, with the engraved heraldry of similar date. Renowned for his highly detailed and ornate chasing a similar salver with hunting scene by Farrell was sold Christies London, 1st February 1978, Lot 90.