A William IV gilt-bronze surtout-de-table and centrepiece the centrepiece by T. B. Whitfield, circa 1830, the surtout-de-table, possibly by the same maker, circa 1830

in three sections; together with a centrepiece in the form of two frolicking putti supporting a basket, seated on an oyster shell supported by three adorsed dolphins, the centrepiece stamped to the underside 'PUBLISHED BY T. B. WHITFIELD No. 121.'

Probably supplied to William, 10th Earl of Devon

Illustrated 'Powderham Castle III', Mark Girouard, Country Life, July 18^th 1963, Vol. CXXXIV, p. 143 in the Great Hall.

Good overall original condition with typical wear and tarnishing. Old marks and scratches to the plates and some losses to the silvering. One end of the surtout du table missing a peg and one corner drops down slightly as a consequence. Glass to one end of the surtout is chipped and partially ground down. The underside with mahogany backing. The centrepiece probably originally with a glass liner to the basket. General typical wear and tarnishing to the finish consistent with age. The centrepiece is probably matched to the surtout du table rather than being made ensuite.
"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."

T. B. Whitfield was a metal worker recorded in Birmingham between 1818 to 1831. He produced a large array of household goods and decorative items. Another example of his work, also with a nautical theme, a dolphin-form chamberstick, is illustrated by Roderick Butler, A Study Collection of Marked Domestic Brass and Other Base Metalware c.1600-c.1900, Honiton, 2001, p.93.

This piece was possibly chosen or commissioned by the family as the dolphins which support the centrepiece relate to the crest of a dolphin naiant, on the Courtenay coat of arms. These animals are also featured as decorative motifs elsewhere at Powderham, notably on Channon's great library bookcases and on the State bed.