Set of 12 English Georgian sterling silver dinner plates with royal provenance, 1837. Retailed by Rundell, Bridge & Rundell in London. Each: Round well; shoulder scalloped and rim gadrooned with strapwork and shellwork cartouches. Engraved cipher for Adelaide of Saxe-Meiningen, who was recruited to provide an heir to the English throne. King George III, her father-in-law, was blessed with many grandchildren, but none was legitimate. His bachelor sons were forced to do their duty and think of England with the added incentive of being voted a generous allowance by Parliament. To this end, a bevy of German princesses was rounded up. Adelaide got the Duke of Clarence, who became King William IV. It was a companionable marriage but there were no surviving children. The plates were made during the last year of her husbands reign. He was succeeded by his niece Victoria, who was the daughter of the Duke of Kent, another middle-aged bridegroom who showed up at the altar under duress. Engraved on underside H. B. Aug. 9. 1899. Fully marked including makers (William Bateman) and retailers stamps as well as duty stamp for the soon-to-be deceased William IV. Very good condition. Dimensions: H 1 x D 10 3/4 in. Heavy total weight: 327 troy ounces. #CD354