A MASTER MAKER
THE AUCTION HOUSE: Catherine Southon, Surrey THE LOT: A pair of Paul Storr silver entrée dishes sold on 2nd May THE PRICE: £3,068 (est £800-£1,200)
‘Paul Storr was the most important silversmith of the 19th century. Although he made simple tableware, its quality was second to none,’ says auctioneer Catherine Southon. When a pair of 1802- 03 Paul Storr entrée dishes came up for sale, despite surface scratches, collectors and dealers sat up. ‘ The owner thought they were silverplated and worthless,’ says Catherine, ‘ but I spo!ed the telltale ‘ PS’ on the hallmark, along with a lion passant, which meant they were English silver and of great value.’