Paul Storr Silver-Gilt Bowl 

This rare and exceptional William IV bowl is the work of preeminent Georgian silversmith Paul Storr. Crafted of luxurious gilt silver, the bowl exhibits all the hallmarks of Storr’s celebrated style, from the textured panels and applied decorations to the ruffled scallop shells and acanthus adorning its matching, fitted underplate. The side of the bowl features a monogram and coronet, indicating it was originally crafted for an English Baron. Figures of import, including nobility and royalty, regularly commissioned work from Storr for its unmatched artistry and superior quality.

Paul Storr was a master at redefining and perfecting Georgian, Regency and William IV silver. His works have remained the most desirable with collectors for generations, and many have been given as prizes in refined competitions. Elegant and sumptuous, this bowl was later awarded as First Prize in a backgammon tournament held at the Clermont Club in 1972.

The Clermont Club, located on London’s aristocratic Berkeley Square in Mayfair, is one of the most exclusive gaming clubs in the world. The club is housed in the only surviving townhouse designed by renowned Georgian architect William Kent, and the architecture and interiors make it one of the most elegant clubs in existence. The list of the club's original members included the cream of the British aristocracy: five dukes, five marquesses, 20 earls and two cabinet ministers. Home to the Clermont Set, an exclusive group of upper-class British gamblers, it was the first London casino opened by John Aspinall after he won the gaming license under Britain's new gambling law. Famous among British celebrities since its opening, the club was sold in 1972 to Playboy Enterprises. 

Later presentation inscription “Clermont Club Grand International Backgammon Tournament April 1972 First Prize.”

Hallmarked London, 1836 on bowl and stand; stand numbered 435

Bowl: 8 1/4” diameter x 3 3/8” high
Stand: 10” diameter