3-008-547 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

Testimonial presented to Richard Spooner Esq., Commissioner of Customs at Bombay, 1862. Silverware consisting of '...one large centrepiece or épergne, with tripod base, which is tastefully ornamented and relieved by commercial and Oriental emblems, Commerce being happily illustrated by a trading vessel in full sail, &c., on one side, and on the other two sides of the base are a camel and native attendant and an elephant and mahout. The tripod is surmounted by a richly-ornamented arabesque pillar, with three arms branching from the capital, each containing glass bowls for fruit or flowers. The two other large fruitstands or companions to the centrepiece are...oval in form, the modelling of which are equally beautiful...Each large piece of plate bears the following inscription: "These three silver centrepieces, together with a service of plate, are presented to Richard Spooner, Esq., Commissioner of Customs at Bombay, by the merchants of that port, as a token of their personal esteem and regard, in acknowledgment of his unvarying zeal, constant courtesy, and great efficiency in the management of the Customs Department. 1862."...The cost of the testimonial is £1000. It was supplied by the firm of Chas. Williams and Co., Oxford-street'. From "Illustrated London News", 1862.