Lot 695
An important Scottish presentation prize punch bowl
Auction: Jewellery, Silver & Watches
Description
Robert Gray & Sons, Glasgow 1821-22, of simple form with ovolo border to rim, applied with two greyhounds in pursuit, engraved inscription 'Given by the Lanarkshire and Renfrewshire Club, worn by Mr Howies brown dog Robin, beating thirty seven others, at Pollok February 23 1822
Dimensions
Diameter: 27cm, weight: 44oz
Footnote
This presentation punch bowl was presented to Mr Howie's brown dog Robin, beating thirty seven others, at Pollok February 23 1822 at the Lanarkshire and Renfrewshire hunt during a coursing hunt, as depicted by the hares on the front of the punch bowl.
The hunt still exists to this day and is well documented through the years in a variety of forms.
On 27th November 2014 (Lot 103), Lyon &Turnbull sold a painting depicting one of their hunts, in which it illustrates the members of influential society who were invited to the hunt. The painting originated from the collection of the Western Club in Glasgow and emphasises the importance of such social activities such as hunting would have had for individuals in the nineteenth century for making social connections.
In this painting a Mr. Robert Gray the silversmith of this trophy is portrayed on the right hand side. Thus highlighting his social status within Glasgow society. This hunt depicts just under 30 individuals and shows how Mr. Gray would have been accepted into Glasgow society noted as a Jeweller and silversmith.
The cup presented in 1822, confirms Gray's establishment. After completing his apprenticeship with Milne and Campbell, Gray secured his freedom of the city in 1779 paying his 'freedom fine' on 30th August to the Incorporation of Hammermen and was admitted as a burgess and one of the guild brethren.
From 1784, a duty was introduced and thus items were required to be hallmarked. At this time Glasgow was regarded as a provincial centre for silversmiths. Consequently, Gray sent his items to the Edinburgh Assay office. From 1819, items were hallmarked solely in Glasgow, which coincides with the growth of his company and Glasgow as a centre for silversmiths.
In 1802, the makers mark is changed from RG to RG&S to include his son William. It has been stated that the firm's designs of flatware become more intricate with carnations of king's patterns becoming aligned with Robert Gray and Son.
Robert Gray died in 1829 at around 73, he was succeeded by his son who kept the RG&S as the makers mark. The influence that the company gained can be seen through the successes of William Gray who had become Chairman of the Glasgow Goldsmiths' Company.
This punch bowl although presented to a dog illustrates a key period in the history of Glasgow and exemplifies how social connections were important for the growth of individuals, businesses and the city of Glasgow itself.