Boer War interest: Victorian silver salver, with piecrust border...

Boer War interest: Victorian silver salver, with piecrust border and gadrooned edge, standing on three

claw and ball feet with presentation inscription reading 'For my dear kinsman Redvers Buller in affectionate admiration of his relief of Ladysmith. 28 February 1900 from Gerard Wallop', sponsors mark of Henry Stratford, London 1899, 245g approx, 21.5cm diameter. General Sir Redvers Henry Buller, VC, GCB, GCMG (Crediton, Devon 1839 Crediton, Devon 1908). He served as Commander-in-Chief of British Forces in South Africa during the early months of the Second Boer War and subsequently commanded the army in Natal until his return to England in November 1900. He was a recipient of the Victoria Cross. The Eton-educated Buller joined the Eton Rifles in 1858, serving in the Second Opium War, Canadian Red River Expedition and Ashanti Campaign. His first experience in South Africa was the 9th Cape Frontier War of 1878 and the Anglo-Zulu War of 1879. He was knighted in 1882 as recognition for his work in the First Boer War and Egypt Campaign. During the Second Boer War (having been promoted to General in 1896) he was made Commander of the Natal Field Force, but was replaced by Lord Roberts following reverses in battle. Despite a triumphant return home, he faced questions regarding his conduct in the war and was eventually dismissed nevertheless, he retained public support, and a statue of him was erected in Exeter in 1905. He died at the family seat, Downes House, in 1908 and the west side of the local church is a monument to him. Condition: Some light surface scratches across the whole surface, a little loss of definition to the decoration. **General condition consistent with age