French Rococo Style Chippendale Rim Silver Plate Salver
Hollowware (Salver/Small Tray) · Likely French or European mass manufacturer; often associated with brands like Christofle or Guy Degrenne in similar styles, though often found as unmarked hotel-ware or mid-century export silver.
Pattern: Chippendale or Filet pattern style; a classic scalloped edge with reeded molding introduced in the 18th century and reproduced globally since.
Type
Hollowware (Salver/Small Tray)
Maker
Likely French or European mass manufacturer; often associated with brands like Christofle or Guy Degrenne in similar styles, though often found as unmarked hotel-ware or mid-century export silver.
Material
Silver Plate on base metal (likely nickel silver or brass); identified by the duller greyish-blue luster and specific surface scratching patterns seen in the image.
Dimensions
Estimated 15-20 cm (6-8 inches) in diameter; weight approximately 200-350 grams depending on base metal density. Small size suggests a coaster or bread plate.
Description
A versatile and elegant small silver-plated salver featuring a classic multi-lobed 'Chippendale' rim. This piece serves as a timeless addition to a table setting, ideal for serving a single glass of wine, holding a small carafe, or acting as a decorative catch-all for cards or jewelry. Its clean central field and decorative border strike a balance between formal tradition and functional simplicity.
Key Features
Scalloped shell-like edge, reeded border definition, high-polish finish, and a lack of ornate engraving which characterizes the 'Filet' or minimalist Rococo aesthetic.
Material & Composition
Silver Plate on base metal (likely nickel silver or brass); identified by the duller greyish-blue luster and specific surface scratching patterns seen in the image.
Finish & Decoration
Mirror polish center with a high-shine finish; features a molded 'Chippendale' or 'recessed shell' scalloped rim. The style is Neoclassical/Rococo revival.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None visible in the overhead shot; would likely bear a 'Metal Blanc' or 'EPNS' mark on the reverse, or a manufacturer square/knight's head stamp if French silver plate.
Construction Details
Likely die-struck or machine-pressed from a single sheet of base metal then electroplated; the uniform precision of the rim indicates industrial manufacturing over hand-raising.
Functional Features
Flat surface meant for serving drinks (salver) or as a underplate; the raised scalloped rim prevents items from sliding off and captures minor spills.
Handle & Grip Details
Traditional handleless design; the rim itself acts as the grip for the server or user.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard industrial grade; high-quality plating with consistent mold definition on the rim, but lacking the soul and 'planishing' marks of a hand-wrought piece.
Authentication Indicators
Uniformity of the rim pattern suggests machine production; surface wear is consistent with silver-plated items rather than solid sterling which tends to 'mellow' differently.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely France or Western Europe; frequently used in French brasseries or as residential entertaining ware during the mid-to-late 20th century.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (1950-1970) Revival style; while the design is 18th-century based, the construction quality and surface texture reflect modern mass production.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960-1980; based on the high-gloss finish and the 'leboncoin' marketplace context which often features vintage household silver from this period.
Cultural Significance
Represents the mid-century European aspiration for 'bourgeois' dining aesthetics, bringing the look of 18th-century aristocratic silver to a broader market through silver plating.
Condition Notes
Good vintage condition; visible 'swirl' scratches in the center from cleaning or use. Some light tarnish in the recessed molding of the rim. No apparent plate loss or 'bleeding' of base metal.
Value Estimate
$15 - $40 USD; value is primarily decorative/functional rather than based on precious metal content.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild silver cream like Wright's; avoid abrasive pads which will strip the thin silver plating and reveal the yellow/red base metal underneath.
Similar Pieces
Sterling silver versions by Gorham or Tiffany (much heavier and hallmarked) or pewter reproductions (duller grey, no shine).
Interesting Facts
The 'Chippendale' rim is named after Thomas Chippendale, whose furniture designs popularized this specific scalloped silhouette in the 1700s, later transitioning into silver flatware and hollowware.