Agricultural interest – A George V sterling silver twin handled trophy cup, London 1934 by H. Phillips

The globular bowl on a circular pedestal base, with applied twin C scrolls handles with grotesques head terminals. Engraved to front “Royal Agricultural Society of England, the “Williamstrip” Challenge Cup. For the best Oxford Down Female Exhibit, presented through the Oxford Down Sheep Breeders Association. Presented by the Earl St. Aldwyn as a perpetual Challenge Cup.”. Also engraved with dates and winner names 1958-2009. Upon a Bakelite solce. Fully marked to rim.

Height – 32.8 cm / 12.9 inches

Silver weight approx – 1121 grams / 36.04 ozt

The Oxford Down Sheep Breeders Association (ODSBA) was established in 1889. Michael John Hicks Beach, 2nd Earl St Aldwyn (1912–1992) is listed as the winner three times for this cup in 1959, 1961, 1962. The family seat is Williamstrip House, near Coln St Aldwyns, Gloucestershire. William Edward Harcourt, 2nd Viscount Harcourt (1908–1979) is listed as the winner twice in 1974 and 1976.