Recently found at market, we were charmed by the exuberant nature and sporting spirit of this Antique Silverplate Harrow School Loving Cup Trophy. Given in 1915 at the height of the First World War before young Seymour Coleman Dalziel (1898-1979) was dispatched to the Alps, this gleaming cup surely held pride of place in the family home for generations. Marrying his local sweetheart in a lavish 1929 ceremony, Seymour remained an avid player and somewhat of a local sporting celebrity, serving as captain and treasurer of the Kingswood Cricket Club.

With a gracefully curved silhouette that highlights a pair of spectacular double handles incorporating articulated ivy and acanthus leaf, the striking cup is elevated upon an impressive pedestal base, which features its own impressive engraving. A significant and lasting souvenir from the school year, this exceptional trophy is engraved with the following:

Founded in 1572 by a local landowner and farmer with a royal charter from Queen Elizabeth I to provide free education for 30 poor boys of the parish, Harrow School has become one of the world's most prestigious preparatory institutions. Becoming the first "boarding" school from a time when the early School Master was permitted to accept "foreigners" (students outside the parish) from whom he received fees, it was the need for these boys to find accommodation that led to the concept of a boarding school. As was all instruction of the time, education was based on the languages and culture of the ancient civilizations of Rome and Greece.

After more than 400 years in operation, Harrow’s list of distinguished alumni includes 7 former British prime ministers, members of both House of Parliament, five monarchs, royal family members from around the globe, writers like Lord Byron and Anthony Trollope, and three Nobel Prize winners. 

A lovely gift for the sports enthusiast, Anglophile, or Harrow grad, this impressive trophy promises to gleam with renewed potential for years to come. Infused with the spirit of sweet victory, we are confident this handsome loving cup with its sentimental provenance will continue to inspire the reach for new heights, grand achievements and your personal best. 

Strictly one-of-a-kind and subject to prior sale. 10"H x 8"W. In very good antique condition. 

Learn More About Loving Cup Trophies

The history of loving cups is one that is rich in tradition: with origins as early as 1811, loving cups were customarily given for special accomplishments, as varied as weddings, athletic achievements or other competitions. In the cup's tradition, if presented to two people, each person held one of the two handles and drank from the loving cup in a symbolic union.