An 18th-Century Treasure Joins Our Collection: Silver Waiter with Historic Links

This autumn, we welcome a remarkable addition to our collection: a George III silver waiter crafted in 1762. Once part of the legendary 1848 Stowe Sale, this piece carries crests plus a heartfelt inscription from Victorian relatives. 

The Hall Bequest Trust is pleased to announce another exciting addition to our museum’s collection: a George III silver waiter, acquired at auction this summer. This interesting piece will be arriving in the autumn and will go on display shortly after — and we can’t wait to share it with you.

Crafted in 1762 by renowned London silversmith Ebenezer Coker, the circular silver waiter is a striking example of 18th-century design. Raised on three pad feet with a beautifully gadrooned border, it’s not only a fine piece of craftsmanship but also a fascinating object rich with historical connections.

On the reverse, an inscription tells another story: “Purchased at the Stowe Sale and Presented to Aunt Forster by her attached relatives, Robert & Emma Hennell, Sept. 1848.” This is intriguing as Robert and Emma obviously felt moved enough by this eventful sale to record it on the back of a gift! Although the piece itself is not hugely beautiful – a waiter/platter would be used by a servant to present a letter or calling card to the family – it’s a great glimpse into what was being sold in the infamous 1848 Stowe sale and the type of people who were probably going for a souvenir!

Now, over 175 years later, this silver waiter makes its way to us, bringing with it layers of British history — from aristocratic splendour to Victorian sentimentality. We’re proud to preserve this story, and to add such a characterful piece to our growing collection.