The Vonolel Bowl, commemorating Lord Roberts' arab horse, 'Vonolel', 1904

Silver-mounted bowl, with horse's hooves and saddle leather, designed by Beatrice Lawson, hallmarked for William Hutton and Sons, London, 1904.

Although little bigger than a pony, 'Vonolel' (1872-99) was his master's only reliable horse during the 2nd Afghan War (1878-80) and carried Roberts on the celebrated march from Kabul to Kandahar. Thereafter he became a familiar sight at ceremonial parades and camps of exercise throughout India. He accompanied Roberts to Ireland where the latter served as Commander-in-Chief 1895-1899. When he died he was buried with full military honours, but his hooves were kept to create this memento.