Mid-20th Century Sterling Silver Rectangular Platter or Tray Segment
Hollowware (Serving Tray or Platter) · Unknown manufacturer; possibly an American silversmith like Gorham or Reed & Barton given the profile and material appearance.
Pattern: Classic Plain Edge or Minimalist Border; common in mid-century institutional or home serving sets.
Type
Hollowware (Serving Tray or Platter)
Maker
Unknown manufacturer; possibly an American silversmith like Gorham or Reed & Barton given the profile and material appearance.
Material
Likely Sterling Silver (.925) or high-quality Heavy Silver Plate (EPNS). The oxidation pattern suggests a silver surface.
Dimensions
Estimated section shown: 10-15cm length. A full platter of this type typically weighs between 600g and 1200g (19-38 troy oz).
Description
This piece represents the mid-century shift toward functional elegance. It features a wide, flat serving area with a subtle, architectural raised border that provides strength without the need for applied wires. Its visual impact is one of understated luxury.
Key Features
The sharp transitional angle between the floor and the rim, the uniform thickness of the metal, and the high-reflectivity finish.
Material & Composition
Likely Sterling Silver (.925) or high-quality Heavy Silver Plate (EPNS). The oxidation pattern suggests a silver surface.
Finish & Decoration
Polished mirror finish on the floor of the piece with a raised, stepped rim or gadroon-less border typical of Neoclassical or Modernist styles.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not visible in the image. Generally located on the underside of the floor or near the rim edge if European.
Construction Details
Machine-pressed or die-struck from a single sheet of silver. The raised rim is formed by mechanical deformation to provide structural rigidity.
Functional Features
Raised lip to prevent liquid run-off; flat, expansive floor for serving meats or appetizers; stackable design.
Handle & Grip Details
None visible. This appears to be a rim-handled piece where the user grips the raised edge directly.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial craftsmanship. The symmetry and consistent gauge of the metal indicate sophisticated tooling and finishing processes.
Authentication Indicators
The presence of uniform 'firestain' or oxidation in the crevices of the rim is consistent with genuine silver/silver-plate aging. No visible base metal bleed suggests it may be solid sterling.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely United States or United Kingdom. Manufactured in factory settings using high-pressure hydraulic presses rather than hand-raising.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (1945-1970). The clean lines and lack of ornate Victorian chasing suggest a post-war functionalist aesthetic.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1965 based on the smooth surface finish and the specific profile of the raised rim step.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Formal Dining' era of the mid-20th century where large silver services were a staple of middle-to-upper-class household entertaining.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Visible surface scratches (swirl marks) indicate frequent use and cleaning with abrasive materials. Some pitting and dark tarnish spots are present.
Value Estimate
If Sterling: $500 - $1,200 (melt plus 20%); If Silver Plate: $20 - $75 depending on maker and size.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a non-abrasive silver cream like Wright's. Store in a Pacific Silvercloth bag to prevent the heavy sulfidation visible in the image corners.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany & Co. 'Windham' pattern or Gorham 'Puritan' platters, which utilize similarly austere, unadorned borders.
Interesting Facts
Platters of this style were frequently presented as retirement gifts or wedding presents in the 1950s, often featuring a large central monogram.