Racing Interest. A George II silver punch bowl, Timothy Ley, London, 1718

plain bellied form, on a stepped and spreading circular foot, engraved 'Wooborn Plate 1729', with later electroplated grille

Marks clear to underside. The silver is a little thin and springy around the engraving and in general around some areas of the bellied centre. Probably a second-hand piece that was re-engraved for the race where it was awarded. Small silver solder repair to inner bowl near centre. Quite worn as commensurate with age.
"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 ‘County History of Bedfordshire’ recorded that a meeting was held at ‘Woobourn’ in 1729 (coinciding with the date on the present bowl), when it staged one of the earliest Selling Races held in England. The main race on that early card was a 20 Guineas Selling Race with the winner being offered for 40 Guineas if demanded, while the other race was a 30 Guineas Plate with the condition that if only one horse entered then his owner had to pay 10 Guineas to the prize money for next year’s Plate. Given that the conditions for neither of these races was particularly appealing, no further races were held in Woburn until 1739.