Fascinating Ornate Antique Sterling Silver English Shooting Trophy Cup Home Decor Militaria

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This exceptional Edwardian sterling silver shooting trophy, known as “Clough’s Cup,” is a rare and highly evocative piece of British … Read more This exceptional Edwardian sterling silver shooting trophy, known as “Clough’s Cup,” is a rare and highly evocative piece of British military and sporting history, dating to 1907. The cup is classically proportioned, with an elegant twin-handled form that balances refinement with a sense of purpose befitting a military trophy. Its gently fluted lower body rises to a smooth, polished upper register, creating a pleasing contrast of texture and light, while the scrolling handles are crisply modeled and confidently cast. The overall appearance is both formal and restrained, allowing the engraved inscriptions and insignia to take prominence, and giving the piece a dignified presence that speaks to Edwardian taste, craftsmanship, and ceremonial use.

Crafted in Sheffield by noted silversmith George Hape, the cup weighs 380 grams and measures 4.75 inches high, 8 inches wide, and 4.75 inches deep, offering a refined yet substantial presence. The trophy was awarded through the Hallamshire Shooting Club, whose membership included many serving and former military men, and reflects the strong culture of marksmanship that was central to Britain’s volunteer and territorial forces in the years leading up to the First World War. One side of the cup is engraved with a bold tiger insignia and the inscription “4th Hallamshire Battalion – The York & Lancaster Regt,” while the reverse records its original award: “Clough Cup – won by Lieut. F. H. Wilkinson, October 12, 1907.” This last photos shows a newspaper clipping from the Sheffield Daily Telegraph, Sept 14, 1907 where they discuss the competition and the award. The cup is in good antique with light signs of wear and handling. Please review the photos for further condition assessment.

The 4th (Hallamshire) Battalion, The York and Lancaster Regiment, was a distinguished Territorial unit based in Sheffield, formed from local rifle volunteers who embodied the Edwardian ideal of the citizen-soldier. Regular shooting competitions such as this were both social and practical, reinforcing discipline and marksmanship in anticipation of active service. When war broke out in 1914, the Hallamshires mobilized rapidly and went on to serve with distinction on the Western Front, fighting in major engagements including Ypres, the Somme, and Passchendaele. As a pre–First World War regimental trophy with clear provenance, this cup stands as a poignant artifact from the final years of imperial Britain—an outstanding example of military silver, and a compelling collectible for those interested in British regimental history, shooting traditions, and Edwardian craftsmanship. See less