Martin, Hall & C. Sheffield - Centrepiece - Alpacca - Serving roaster

Elegant serving roaster with a bell (or cloche), a refined vintage serving piece commonly used between the 19th and early 20th centuries in noble residences or grand hotels. Specifically designed to present, cover, and keep warm large cuts of meat or freshly roasted joints at the table. The set consists of a wide oval base elevated on shaped feet and a monumental smooth dome with an elegant upper handle decorated with floral or gadrooned motifs. The motto inscribed in the cartouche reads "LE ROY LA LOY" (in old French meaning "The King, the Law"). This particular motto belongs to the Larcom family, an important lineage of British-born baronets. The main assay mark shows the four letters E P G S set within individual Gothic shields. It signifies Electroplated German Silver (i.e., Alpacca/Argentone galvanizzato). On the right of the four main shields, there is a small additional narrower shield with letters arranged vertically (read as MH / & / Co). This is the official hallmark of the prestigious Martin, Hall & Co. of Sheffield. It was one of the most important British companies of the Victorian era, specializing in fine silverware and luxury plate. The marks certify that the cloche is an original English piece of excellent manufacture, produced by Martin, Hall & Co. in the second half of the 19th century.