Mid-Century Modern Silver Phrygian Glass Tray with Silver-Plated Frame
Hollowware/Serving Tray · Likely manufactured by an American mid-market company such as Farber Brothers, Kromex, or Sheffield Silver Co (USA). While no specific maker mark is visible, the assembly style is diagnostic of Depression-era to Mid-Century mass market giftware.
Pattern: Unidentified 'Phrygian' or concentric ring pattern glass with a standard ribbed/stepped chrome or silver-plated frame.
Type
Hollowware/Serving Tray
Maker
Likely manufactured by an American mid-market company such as Farber Brothers, Kromex, or Sheffield Silver Co (USA). While no specific maker mark is visible, the assembly style is diagnostic of Depression-era to Mid-Century mass market giftware.
Material
Mixed materials: Press-molded glass insert with a textured concentric circle pattern; frame is likely electroplated nickel silver (EPNS) or chrome-plated brass/steel. The price point ($15.00 label) and construction strongly suggest silver plate rather than solid sterling.
Dimensions
Estimated 10-12 inches in diameter. Weight is primarily in the glass insert; the metal frame is lightweight gauge typical of functional serving ware.
Description
This charming mid-century serving tray combines the industrial elegance of plated metal with the tactile geometry of pressed glass. The tray features a distinctive concentric ring 'target' pattern on the glass liner, designed to hide knife scratches and provide a shimmering effect under dining light. The streamlined metal frame provides a sturdy cradle, embodying the 'Machine Age' aesthetic that brought sophisticated design into the average home.
Key Features
Concentric circle patterned glass; ribbed Art Deco handles; lightweight wire-frame construction; utilitarian removable liner.
Material & Composition
Mixed materials: Press-molded glass insert with a textured concentric circle pattern; frame is likely electroplated nickel silver (EPNS) or chrome-plated brass/steel. The price point ($15.00 label) and construction strongly suggest silver plate rather than solid sterling.
Finish & Decoration
The glass features an all-over texture of concentric rings. The metal frame has a polished mirror finish with a ribbed/stepped Art Deco style handle and a simple wire-rim gallery design.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None visible in the image. Typically, these items are stamped on the bottom of the metal frame with 'EPNS', 'Silverplate', or a manufacturer logo. The absence of a prominent 'Sterling' stamp usually confirms a plated base metal.
Construction Details
The glass is machine-pressed. The metal frame consists of a die-struck gallery rim with machine-formed handles attached via rivets or spot welds. It is a production-line assembly rather than hand-wrought.
Functional Features
Removable glass insert for easy cleaning; raised wire gallery to prevent the glass from sliding; dual 'C' shaped handles for carrying appetizers or cocktails.
Handle & Grip Details
The handles are a multi-ribbed 'stepped' design, a hallmark of Art Deco and Streamline Moderne aesthetics, made of hollow or thin gauge plated metal attached to the outer frame.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard industrial grade. The glass pressing is uniform, and the metal bends are clean. It prioritizes function and affordability over the intricate hand-chasing found in luxury silver.
Authentication Indicators
The price tag indicates a thrift or antique mall setting ($15.00 is a standard price for plated mid-century giftware). The construction (visible rivets and thin metal) is consistent with mass-produced plated items rather than high-end sterling.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely United States. During this era, companies in Connecticut and New York dominated the production of glass-and-metal casual serving sets for the American domestic market.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (c. 1940-1960). The concentric circle motif on the glass and the streamlined metalwork are classic indicators of the transition from late Art Deco to post-war modernism.
Age Estimate
Circa 1945-1955. The style of the price tag and the specific 'ripple' texture of the glass are most common in early post-WWII kitchenware.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Cocktail Culture' of mid-century America, where entertaining at home with elegant, easy-to-clean serving pieces became a standard of suburban social life.
Condition Notes
Good vintage condition. The metal shows some light tarnish and possible 'pitting' (common in chrome/plate). The glass appears free of major chips, though 'flea bites' on the rim are common for this age. A retail sticker '11/4/26 $15.00' is present on the glass.
Value Estimate
$15.00 - $35.00. The current price tag of $15.00 is a fair market value for a single plated tray without a signed maker or rare glass color.
Care & Maintenance
Wash the glass by hand with mild soap (avoid dishwashers to prevent clouding). Polish the metal frame with a soft cloth and a non-abrasive silver cream; avoid harsh chemicals that could strip the thin plating layer.
Similar Pieces
Farber Brothers 'Krome-Kraft' pieces (usually have darker blue/amethyst glass), Dorothy Thorpe silver-rimmed glass, or Cambridge glass in metal mounts.
Interesting Facts
These trays were often sold as 'tidbit' trays or 'relish' sets and were popular wedding gifts in the late 40s because they looked expensive but were affordable and durable.