This silver-plated tray was produced to commemorate the Provost’s Prize of Trinity College, Dublin in 1871. The tray’s purpose is made clear by the inscription at its centre: “Dublin University Athletic Sports 1871 / Provost’s Prize / 7 Mile Walking Race / Won by H. C. Hart.”

The tray is of oval form and features a large central circular relief of Zeus enthroned with an eagle and kneeling attendant by his side. This central panel is surrounded by the aforementioned inscription, which is in turn surrounded by a series of panels depicting various scenes from Classical antiquity. The curved profile of the lip of the tray features several cartouches, each of which depicts a moment from a Classical or mythological battle scene, which complements further the sporting achievement the tray commemorates. The decorative scheme is rich and detailed: the relief scenes are wrought beautifully and are interspersed with scrolling motifs and Classical masks.

The tray is stamped E&Co. for Elkington & Co.