Two fine matching Irish George II silver cups and covers, one Robert Calderwood, both Dublin, 1736 and 1739

the bodies armorial-engraved and crested below border of matted strapwork incorporating engraved male and female portrait medallions, crests repeated on the covers, with scratchweights for the bodies of 62=4 and 63=7, one with no apparent maker's mark

Previously sold the property of Miss Betty Gordon, Christies London, July 20 1955, lot 151

One has been used for storage and has pitting on the inside, very minor intrusion of handles into body of same cup, a little wear to crests on the covers, some minor nicks but generally in very good condition with very nice engraving. Scratchweights 62=4 and 63=7 are for bodies only. the actual weights of bodies are 61. 3 and 62. 4
"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 arms on the earlier cup are those of Moore impaling Ponsonby for Edward, 5th Earl of Drogheda (1701-1758), who married as his first wife in 1727 Sarah Ponsonby (1711-1736), fourth daughter of the 1st Earl of Bessborough.

The arms on the later cup are those of Moore impaling Southwell, also for Edward, 5th Earl of Drogheda, who married as his second wife on 30 September 1737, Bridget, daughter of William Southwell (1669-1719), Governor in 1706 of Montjuïc Castle, Barcelona.

The Earl of Drogheda and his third son by his first wife, the Rev. Edward Loftus Moore (b. 1736), chaplain to the House of Commons, were among the passengers drowned on 28 October 1758 aboard the Chester Trader, sailing between Parkgate, Cheshire and Dublin.