Description

Of sporting interest. An Irish antique silver dish ring, of traditional design, beautifully pierced and embossed with a shooting scene of huntsmen in a wooded glen accompanied by dogs and flying birds. To the front is a large, vacant cartouche.

Weight 424 grams, 13.6 troy ounces.
Height 10cm. Diameter 18.3cm (top), 19.6cm (bottom).
Dublin 1788.
Maker probably Robert Breading.
Sterling silver.

Marks. Stamped on the bottom edge with a full set of Irish silver marks. Makers mark “BR”, badly struck, probably Robert Breading (free 1782, died 1822).

Literature. The earliest surviving silver dish rings date from the end of the 17th century and are probably derived from the brazier. Of circular form, they were used to support hot plates or bowls of food. Their prime function was to protected the dining table or sideboard from heat damage however their attractive designs add an ornamental element to the table decoration. Dish rings were usually made in Ireland and thus came to be known as the ‘Irish Potato Ring’.