Regular price $499.00 USD
Gorgeous, antique, ornate, Old Sheffield silver plate, oval serving tray with family armorial crest on an inlaid sterling silver shield. This double handled tray has a gadroon rim. In the center, on the inlaid silver shield is an armorial crest of a crowned, rampant lion holding an axe in a wreath. In the exact middle of the shield is a tiny dot which, "was always made in the centre of such shields by which the engraver could identify his central point"--see 10th picture (It's the underside of the shield where the tin wore off). It's a clearer picture of the central "dot". According to Gf. Bernard Hughes in his book Sheffield Silver Plate, "The presence of a silver shield is an indication the piece is genuine Sheffield plate:". The underside was tinned. This was standard for early Sheffield plate. As Hughes explains, "the underside coated with tin, polished and burnished until to the casual eye it closely resembled the hue of Sheffield plate. This continued until about 1830." See pictures to see where the silver layer is folded over in the traditional workmanship fashion. There are some spots on the face where the base copper is showing through--which is desirable. Absolutely gorgeous. The uses for this tray are endless. Makes a wonderful butlers tray, tea tray, serving tray, centerpiece or just to display.
Measurements: Approx 23 1/4" long handle to handle, 20" without handles x 15 3/8" wide.
Marks: No makers marks that I can see which is common with Old Sheffield plate.
The tray is in good antique condition. Has some small areas on the face and areas on the underside of the handles where the base metal slightly peaking through (see pics) which I feel adds to its charm and character. The underside the tin has worn away in much of the area over the last few hundred years. Some typical signs of age and use like light surface scratches scuff/buff marks. No obvious damage I can see.
Most of my items are vintage and antique, which are used or aged, so my items are sold "as is". Refunds or exchanges are not accepted unless I erroneously forgot to mention a major flaw. My pictures aren't doctored to hide flaws so please use photos as part of the description. My items are antique and vintage. They have been loved through the years and most likely will show such. I buy items that I personally love from estate sales, auctions, flea markets, thrift stores, etc. I do my very best to list the condition of my items as well as show pictures. Please ask questions before purchasing. I hope you'll love your purchase as much as I did when I found it. Please contact me with any issues prior to leaving feedback. I strive for a 5 star experience.
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