One of five versions, all measuring 3ft (90cm) diameter but of different weights, the last example to come on the market, weighing 669oz, sold at Sotheby's in May 1984 to Koopman and Armitage for £440,000, then a world record for a piece of English silver. This 723oz example, estimated at £300,000-500,000, also sold to Koopman Rare Art, but this time for £390,000.
Lost shield resurfaces and is sold
This massive silver-gilt shield of Achilles, by Rundell, Bridge & Rundell of London, lost to scholars for the better part of the 20th century, appeared at Sotheby's on December 18 after resurfacing in Belgium.