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Dr Henri Papenfus, Freeman -
Prof David Rosen, Jamie Baker and Matthew Havadtoi -
Court meeting and Court Dinner
23rd September 2026Wax Chandlers' Hall
It’s difficult not to wax lyrical about the beautiful Wax Chandlers’ Hall in Gresham Street, where we held our Autumn Court meeting and dinner this year.
It is such a treat to meet in the Court Room of this, the sixth hall to stand on the site since 1501. The Hall has one metaphorical toe on land belonging to the rather sharp-elbowed Goldsmiths’ Company next door, for which the Wax Chandlers have to pay an annual forfeit of one guinea.
Despite a lengthy agenda, the afternoon Court ran smoothly. Highlights included the installation of new Freemen Jamie Baker and Dr Henri Papenfus, and the gowning – or “cloathing” – of two new Liverymen, Professor David Rosen and Matthew Havadtoi.
After Court we had time for a glass of sparkle and some photographs inside the Hall, while a few members took the opportunity to enjoy a cigar outside. Gresham Street boasts the Goldsmiths’ Garden, a pretty little spot across the road in this most central part of the City, where modern office buildings and ancient Livery halls jostle surprisingly comfortably side by side.
We were delighted to be joined by the newly installed Master Wax Chandler, Tony Ward, and his Clerk, Richard Moule, as well as the Master Communicator, Justine McGuinness. We were also very pleased to see the legendary Beadle of the Wax Chandlers, Stanley Liu, who beadled for us last year when we were temporarily Beadle-less.
Dinner was provided with great style by the brilliant team from Mark Groves’ The Cook & The Butler – and, as always, the surroundings made a splendid setting for a memorable evening.