Waiter
Richard Rugg
Category
Silver
Date
1754 - 1755
Materials
Silver
Measurements
152 mm (Diameter)
Collection
Dunham Massey, Cheshire
NT 935881.2
Summary
One of a pair of shaped square silver waiters by Richard Rugg, part of Lady Mary Booth's toilet service, described in the 1791 inventory as '2 Salvers'. 'The shaped square waiters are raised and have scalloped moulded and applied rims. The borders are engraved with interlaced strapwork, shells and four different male and female masks on each with cartouches and, in the centre, armorial devices. The four hoof feet are cast... The presence of these waiters in the toilet service is a reminder that "gantieres" - small stands for gloves - were traditionally considered a necessary part of the ensemble. By this date standard small waiters would suffice (Lomax & Rothwell, 'Country House Silver from Dunham Massey', 2006, p. 145).
Provenance
Stamford collection; devised to the National Trust by Roger Grey, 10th Earl of Stamford (1896-1976). Christie's 20 April 1921, lot 45; bought by the Earl of Stamford via Willson [presumably an agent acting for the Earl].
Marks and inscriptions
'Fully marked on the underside with the maker's mark (Grimwade 20420), leopard's head crowned, lion passant and date letter' (Lomax & Rothwell, 'Country House Silver from Dunham Massey', 2006, p. 145).
Makers and roles
Richard Rugg, silversmith