Japan pattern egg cup, part of a breakfast service that belonged to Vice-Admiral Horatio Nelson (1758-1805). The egg cup is painted in colours and gilt. Between floral panels on the exterior, there are three reserves containing Nelson's 'SAN JOSEF' crest, inscribed with his motto 'FAITH AND WORKS', a Viscount's coronet and a Duke's coronet. '240' is painted on the base. The service was ordered by Nelson after a visit to Chamberlain's china factory on August 26 1802. In the inventory of the contents of his house at Merton, sold by Lady Hamilton in 1809, it is called the 'Horatia Service'. One of a pair AAA4542-AAA4543.