19th c., large silverplated server having a domed cover with cast handle of foliate and floral design, the tray, with gravy well and hot water reservoir, scrolled handles, and cast foliate and shell border, is raised on four ring and ball feet (one lacking). The tray bears a pseudo sponsor's mark of "JN" and is engraved with "AFFGHANISTAN" above a rampant lion with pennant and "AUDACTER ET STRENUE" over a passant boar pierced by an arrow. Having an Afghan reference here in tandem with the heraldry of Scotland's Pollock Family is seemingly odd, but hardly coincidental: Major General George Pollock was one of Britain's foremost strategists in the First Afghan War, which commenced in 1839. Pollock, already esteemed in military circles, earned popular celebrity when, in January, 1842, he relieved the besieged British garrison at Jalalabad. This fine presentation tray with its quaintly spelled "Affghanistan" is undoubtedly associated with General Pollock's valuable service to Queen and country.

15.5" x 25" x 17.5"

The lid and tray, although an excellent fit, may not be original to each other, some expected bleeding and scratches.

Collection of Larry Fraga, Mocksville, North Carolina

$1,000 - 2,000