A massive silver salver presented to Rear-Admiral Sir Charles Vinicombe Penrose GCMG KCB (1759-1830).

The salver, on four large scrolled feet, has a waved, gadrooned border, elaborately chased with flowers and foliage. The central inscription is surrounded by a wide border with cartouches containing baskets of flowers and foliage and diamond patterned panels.

It is inscribed: 'Presented to Rear Admiral Sir C.V. Penrose K.C.B. &c &c &c By the Captains who had the Honor of Serving under his Command In the Mediterranean Station, During the Years 1816-1817 and 1818 In Testimony of their Respect and Esteem FOR HIS PUBLIC AND PRIVATE CHARACTER'.

Marshall's ‘Naval Biography’, published in 1823, recorded the presentation: 'The merchants at Malta subsequently presented Sir Charles Penrose with a service of plate, as a token of their respect and esteem; the captains and commanders under his orders likewise requested his acceptance of a splendid silver salver, with a flattering inscription, expressive of their high respect for his public and private character. He returned home in the spring of 1819; and was advanced to the rank of Vice-Admiral, July 19, 1821.'.