The Deccan silver-gilt service was a gift to Wellington (then General Wellesley) from the Regiments who served under him in 1803 during the Second Anglo-Maratha War, in the Deccan region of India.
The idea of a gift was proposed as early as February 1804. At first it was intended to take the form of a gold vase. By late 1805, the decision had been made to substitute this for a service of silver plate.
Four different London makers were chosen because of their individual areas of specialisation: William Fountain and John Moore for the plates and dishes; John Edwards for the tureens (pictured) and decorative bowls, and, Joseph Preedy for the centrepiece.