A FINE GEORGE III EPÈRGNE WILLIAM DEMPSTER, EDINBURGH 1760 the central oval basket with cast scroll and shell border, the body with an elaborate pierced decoration of lattice work panels and foliate scrolls, centrally pierced with the script initial D with a ducal coronet above, raised on an inswept pierced stem base, which supports four leaf and cast cabriole double scroll legs, Rococo scroll and shell border swags between, each with cast arm supporting an alternating oval or shaped oval tray (72cm long, 183oz) Footnote: Note: This remarkable epergne appears to be amongst the earliest Scottish examples recorded, with only one other by Lothian & Robertson of the same year noted, and of these is the largest featuring six arms and dishes rather than the four here. It is a remarkable survivor with no other Scottish example for comparison until the late 18th century with only three others recorded prior to 1800. The National Museum of Scotland’s collection featuring an example with a central bowl and four smaller dishes by Patrick Cunningham & Sons of Edinburgh 1806 and is the only example in an institutional collection that can be found. Without doubt, the most impressive form of silver made for a table in Scotland this piece must surely have graced the dining room of the most fashionable mid 18th century home, few other Edinburgh or indeed Scottish homes could compete with the grandeur. Tantalisingly the pieced initial ‘D’ and engraved Ducal coronet strongly suggest original ownership connection with Duke and Duchess of Devonshire. A close connection of the Dukes of Devonshire and Edinburgh cannot be found to suggest a reason for such a commission north of the border rather than London. However, William Cavendish 4th Duke of Devonshire (1720 – 1764) would likely have been a close friend of Lord Bute who succeeded his close ally The Duke of Newcastle as Prime Minister with Devonshire remaining in his position as Lord Chamberlain for Lord Bute. Although a connection could be assumed here no obvious reason for the commission can be found.