A Victorian silver presentation ewer, Robert W. Smith, Dublin, 1843

the inscribed and crested fluted vase-shaped body chased with foliage and applied with cast flowerheads, hinged lid, the silver handle with ivory fillets

marks on body good, the handle, hinged lid and finial appear not to be marked; overall condition good apart from a number of very small dents, also the foot needs to be slightly straightened; note the (probably slightly later) ivory fillets to handle
"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 inscription reads: 'PRESENTED to John Francis Maguire Esq^r. M.P. BY HIS FELLOW CITIZENS without any distinction in testimony of the unparalleled ability energy and zeal for the PUBLIC SERVICE which distinguished his conduct during the year 1853 AS MAYOR OF CORK'

John Francis Maguire (1815-1872) was a distinguished Irish politician and writer. He was MP for Dungarvan from 1852 until 1865 and for the City of Cork from 1865 until his death. He was a prolific writer and among the books he published was Irish in America (1868), an account in which he expounded on every aspect of his fellow countrymen's lot in the New World. According to A Compendium of Irish Biography (1878), Maguire’s 'character for earnestness and sincerity stood so high that a testimonial subscription, opened after his death, was joined in by the Queen, and by many others who were unable to endorse his political opinions.'