This magnificent antique Victorian sterling silver gallery tray has a plain oval form.

The large surface of this antique silver gallery tray is ornamented with a contemporary bright cut engraved figural statue illustration of Sir Isaac Newton below the motto 'Reginae Munificentia Arbitrio Societatis', with a diagram of the solar system to the left.

The scrolling leaf decorated cartouche incorporates the presentation inscription 'Victorian Regina Soc, Reg, Lond, Patrona, MDCCCXXXVIII' and Prof Victor Alexander Haden Horsley, F.R.S. 1894.

The deep galleried border of this tray is embellished with pierced scrolling leaf and floral decoration incorporating two shaped oval inset handles.

The tray is further embellished with an applied bead decorated border to the rim.

The halmarked underside of the tray features the retailer's mark 'Thomas 153 New Bond St'.

This magnificent sterling silver gallery tray is the finest example of its type you could hope to acquire.

Read a brief history of antique silver trays

This antique silver gallery tray is an exceptional gauge of silver, exceptional quality and in exceptional condition.

The pierced and applied decoration is very sharp and the bright cut engraved ornamentation is very crisp.

Full hallmarks struck to the anterior surface of the gallery are clear; the maker's mark has wear in keeping with age and location.

The part hallmarks to the underside of the surface, consisting of a lion passant and maker's mark are all very clear

Reflections in photographs may detract from the true representation of this example of Victorian silverware.

Length across handles 68.3cm/26.9"

Width 44.4cm/17.5"

Length of surface 63.1cm/24.8"

Width of surface 39cm/15.4"

Height 6.5cm/2.6"

137 troy ounces/4261g