A pair of George II silver meat platters, Paul de Lamerie, London, 1745

rectangular with shaped ends, gadrooned and fluted borders with shells and scrolls at the angles, engraved with contemporary arms

The arms are those of Ellis impaling Stanhope for Welbore Ellis (1713-1802), created 1794 1^st Baron Mendip of  Mendip, Co Somerset.

scratches, wear, and small dings from use, some overall wear to borders and engraving. otherwise good, handsome model
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Welbore Ellis married firstly 18 November 1747 Elizabeth, only daughter and heir of Sir William Stanhope KB (d 1761) and through her Ellis inherited Pope's villa at Twickenham which her father had bought in 1744.  In 1763 Gainsborough painted a fine portrait of Ellis now at Christ Church, Oxford.

A further two dishes from this set previously in the George D. Wiidener collection, Philadelphia, were sold Sotheby's London, 5 March, 1998 lot 238.  A matching pair of second course dishes were sold Sotheby's London 26 November 1992 lot 89, and twenty-four dinner plates sold Christie's New York, 10 January 1991 on behalf of the Republic of The Philippines through the Presidential Commission on Good Government.