Ornate Repoussé and Hammered Silver Plated Serving Tray or Charger Plate
Hollowware - Tray / Charger Plate · Unknown manufacturer, likely mid-20th century international or American silverplate producer utilizing traditional Victorian revival motifs.
Pattern: Victorian Floral Scroll Revival Pattern with Hammered Center
Type
Hollowware - Tray / Charger Plate
Maker
Unknown manufacturer, likely mid-20th century international or American silverplate producer utilizing traditional Victorian revival motifs.
Material
Silver Plated over a base metal (typically brass, copper, or nickel silver / German silver).
Dimensions
Estimated diameter of approximately 12 to 14 inches (30-35 cm), typical of a standard service charger plate or small serving tray.
Description
An eye-catching round silver plated serving tray or charger plate featuring a wide, deeply embossed repoussé border filled with intricate scrolling foliage and blooming flowers. The contrasting central field displays a reflective, hammered texture that catches the light beautifully, blending rustic hand-wrought aesthetics with formal Victorian design elements.
Key Features
Wide heavily-embossed floral scroll border, contrasting hammered center well, circular charger form.
Material & Composition
Silver Plated over a base metal (typically brass, copper, or nickel silver / German silver).
Finish & Decoration
Combination finish featuring a heavily chased and repoussé floral scroll border with high relief, paired with a hand-hammered (or machine-hammered impression) mirror-polished central well.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not clearly visible in the provided image; likely stamped on the reverse side with maker initials, a silverplate indicator such as 'EP' (Electroplated), or 'EPNS'.
Construction Details
Likely machine-pressed or die-stamped base metal sheet with hand-finished or die-pressed repoussé borders and applied edge rim, electroplated with a thin layer of silver.
Functional Features
Flat central well designed to hold a tea service, decanter set, or act as a decorative charger plate under dinnerware.
Handle & Grip Details
Rimless or low-profile raised edge design without handles, relying on the outer border for grip.
Craftsmanship Details
Good commercial-grade craftsmanship utilizing die-pressing techniques to achieve deep relief ornamentation combined with hand-polished central texturing.
Authentication Indicators
Visual characteristics indicate a standard silver-plated commercial decorative tray rather than solid sterling silver. Reverse hallmarks should be inspected to confirm exact plating composition and maker.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely manufactured in the United States, United Kingdom, or Europe by a commercial silverplate factory.
Era & Period
Victorian Revival style, produced likely during the Mid-Century period (c. 1940-1970) when heavily ornamented traditional styles saw a resurgence.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1970 based on the style of manufacture, thrift store sticker style, and widespread commercial production of revival hollowware.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the enduring popularity of ornate Victorian table settings in middle-class homes throughout the mid-20th century, adding an air of formal hospitality to dining and entertaining.
Condition Notes
Very Good vintage condition with light surface scratches and minor tarnish appropriate for age and thrift store discovery. Silver plating appears largely intact with no visible brass show-through.
Value Estimate
Market value ranges between $15 to $50 USD, depending on the presence of a recognized maker's mark on the reverse and overall condition of the silver plating.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a gentle liquid silver polish or specialized silver care cloth. Avoid abrasive scouring pads to protect the thin electroplated silver layer. Store in a dry environment wrapped in anti-tarnish cloth.
Similar Pieces
Similar silver-plated trays produced by companies like F.B. Rogers, Wallace, International Silver, and various English electroplaters.
Interesting Facts
Items like this are frequently found in thrift stores and estate sales, offering high visual impact and decorative utility for a fraction of the cost of solid sterling silver alternatives.