The word epergne describes a type of table decoration that is known from the mid 18th century. In spite of the French sound of the term, it cannot be traced back to French origins, though the form itself seems to be inspired by French silver centrepieces. It is in fact distinctly British and largely absent from the continent.

Epergnes often consist of a central basket surrounded by smaller baskets hung on branches. These would have been filled with delicacies such as fruit or sweetmeats. This example is typical of Thomas Pitts, an interesting combination of Rococo scrolls, foliage and shells, with the taste for exoticism. Its overall shape is that of a Chinese pagoda, often seen in English gardens at the time. It is surmounted by a pineapple, a symbol of wealth popular in architecture and decorative art since the late 17th century.

Sir Arthur Gilbert and his wife Rosalinde formed one of the world's great decorative art collections, including silver, mosaics, enamelled portrait miniatures and gold boxes. Arthur Gilbert donated his extraordinary collection to Britain in 1996.