Object Description
Very large antique English silver-gilt equestrian trophy by Paul Storr
English, 1837
Jug: Height 87cm, width 45cm, depth 36cm
Case: Height 93cm, width 52cm, depth 38cm
Weight 9kg
Presented as a prestigious prize for the Goodwood Stewards’ Cup in July 1842, this rare and exceptional silver-gilt ewer stands as a testament to the craftsmanship of Storr & Mortimer, one of 19th century England’s most celebrated silversmithing partnerships. The winning racehorse, Lady Adela (ridden by jockey Jem Chapple), marked her place in sporting history as the third-ever victor of the Stewards’ Cup, an event that remains the fourth oldest at the renowned Glorious Goodwood meeting.
Dating to 1837, the ewer boasts a bold baluster-form silhouette, richly detailed with ornate and symbolic ornamentation. Its rim is artistically shaped and surrounded by flowing C-scrolls that lead elegantly to a scroll handle, embellished with chased decoration. These elements naturally guide the viewer’s attention to the rounded central body, which forms the visual and narrative heart of the piece.
The central decorative panel is a masterclass in 19th-century silverwork, depicting a tranquil Orientalist scene in finely cast and chased relief. An Arab figure reclines beside his horse in a serene moment of companionship; the man’s gentle gesture – stroking the horse’s head – emphasises the emotional connection between the two. Trailing botanical details, including stylised flowers on one side and a sheaf of wheat entwined with leaves on the other, frame the composition. A ribbon unites the elements at the base. This imagery beautifully echoes the spirit of post-race respite, reinforcing the ewer’s role as an equestrian trophy.
Orientalism held significant appeal during the 19th century, as European artists and patrons developed a fascination with the cultures and imagery of the Middle East. Storr & Mortimer were no strangers to this trend, incorporating similar scenes into other racing trophies of the period. These romanticised portrayals of Arab horsemen – symbolising nobility, speed, and loyalty – resonated deeply with contemporary ideals and subtly echoed Britain’s imperial narratives.
Surrounding the lower portion of the ewer is a beautifully rendered band of laurel leaves meticulously crafted to achieve a lifelike effect. The ewer is raised on a stepped, circular spreading base, its smooth surface purposefully unadorned to spotlight the narrative frieze above.
This important object bears multiple inscriptions and hallmarks. The neck reads ‘WON BY / LADY ADELA / 3 YRS OLD’, while the foot is engraved ‘GOODWOOD / 1842’. Near the rim, an inscription notes the publication details ‘No. 158 Published as the Act directs June 8, 1832 / by Storr & Mortimer 156 New Bond St London’, alongside full English silver hallmarks and the maker’s mark of Paul Storr.
The ewer is housed in its original custom-made fitted case, complete with carrying handles and an exterior label engraved ‘LORD JERSEY / 12’ for the horse’s owner. The interior bears the retailer’s mark ‘R. & S. Garrard & Co.’, renowned jewellers and silversmiths to the Crown.
Founded in 1822, Storr & Mortimer combined the design genius of Paul Storr (1770–1844) with the business acumen of John Mortimer. Their shop on New Bond Street, London (initially No. 13, later relocating to No. 156), attracted a distinguished clientele, including royalty and aristocracy. The partnership dissolved shortly after Storr’s retirement in 1838, making works from this final phase of their collaboration particularly desirable.
More than a simple sporting trophy, this finely crafted ewer offers insight into the artistry, symbolism, and social history of 19th century Britain. An extraordinary artefact for collectors of English silver or those passionate about the heritage of horse racing, it represents the pinnacle of both design and historic significance.