Royal. A George III silver meat dish cover, John Mewburn, London, 1806

shaped oval, applied gadroon borders and handle, engraved on either side with the royal arms, Garter motto, supporters and motto below a royal coronet, further engraved 'EA Fs'

H.R.H. Ernest Augustus, Duke of Cumberland and King of Hanover (1771-1851)

Marked with the maker's mark, lion passant and date letter only, marks slightly rubbed but all still visible, there are some small dents and scratches around the dome, including four small dents just above the coat-of-arms on one side, and an approx 2in surface scratch near the coat-of-arms on the other side; otherwise overall good condition, a rare example of a large meat dome in sterling silver
"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 royal arms are those as borne by Ernest Augustus, Duke of Cumberland, fifth son of George III and Queen Charlotte. He succeeded to the crown of Hanover on the death of his brother, William IV, in 1837.

The engraved initials 'EA Fs' is a short version of 'Ernest Augustus Fidekommiss,' which was engraved on the order of Ernest Augustus when King of Hanover to indicate items entailed to his estate. This included a large silver dinner service of which this present meat dish cover was part.