Victorian Style Footed Rectangular Silver-Plated Entrée Dish
Hollowware: Entrée Serving Dish · Unknown manufacturer; likely an American or British commercial silversmith such as International Silver Co. or Barker Ltd. consistent with mass-produced hospitality and domestic wares.
Pattern: Rococo Revival Shell and Scroll pattern; generic but widely utilized by silver-plating companies throughout the early to mid-20th century.
Type
Hollowware: Entrée Serving Dish
Maker
Unknown manufacturer; likely an American or British commercial silversmith such as International Silver Co. or Barker Ltd. consistent with mass-produced hospitality and domestic wares.
Material
Silver plate over base metal (likely nickel silver/EPNS or copper). The yellowish tint suggests significant tarnish or thinning of the silver layer exposing the base metal beneath.
Dimensions
Estimated length 10-12 inches, width 8-9 inches, height 3-4 inches. Weight approx. 800-1,200 grams depending on base metal density and loading.
Description
A substantial rectangular entrée dish featuring a deep well and an ornate Rococo-inspired border. The piece is elevated on four decorative scroll-and-leaf feet, providing an elegant profile for a formal table setting. The heavy ornamentation at the corners contrasts with the smooth, reflective surface of the serving basin.
Key Features
Ornate cast four-footed base, shell-and-scroll border, rectangular form with rounded corners, and evident heavy tarnish with potential 'bleeding' of base metal.
Material & Composition
Silver plate over base metal (likely nickel silver/EPNS or copper). The yellowish tint suggests significant tarnish or thinning of the silver layer exposing the base metal beneath.
Finish & Decoration
Mirror polish interior with a cast Shell and Scroll (Rococo Revival) border. Features heavy foliate corners and a gadroon-style rim with repoussé-like floral accents. Highly oxidized/tarnished surface.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No marks visible in provided image; likely stamped on the underside with 'EPNS', 'Silver on Copper', or a manufacturer's trademark logo and a design number.
Construction Details
Machine-pressed body with cast decorative border and feet soldered to the main frame. The feet appear to be cast white metal or brass then plated.
Functional Features
High-walled serving well designed to hold hot dishes; typically would have originally included a matching removable lid which could often double as a second serving piece.
Handle & Grip Details
Lacks side handles; typically relies on the wide decorative rim for grip. If a lid were present, it would likely feature a detachable 'lock' handle.
Craftsmanship Details
Middle-market industrial quality. Decorative elements are cast rather than hand-chased. Symmetry is good, suggesting machine-assisted manufacturing.
Authentication Indicators
The lack of sterling hallmarks suggests silver plate. Construction joins at the feet and the repetitive nature of the border pattern are indicative of commercial plating processes.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely United States or United Kingdom, mass-produced in a factory setting using industrial plating techniques and die-striking.
Era & Period
Late Victorian/Edwardian Revival style. While the design is 19th-century inspired, the construction suggests a 20th-century production era (c. 1920-1950).
Age Estimate
Circa 1930-1960. The crispness of the border and the wear patterns on the plating are consistent with mid-century household utility silver.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of luxury in the early 20th century, where middle-class households used silver-plated wares to emulate the grand 'Solid Silver' lifestyle of the aristocracy.
Condition Notes
Fair. Significant tarnish and oxidation (sulfide deposits) across the surface. Possible 'plate loss' where the base metal is showing through as a golden/copper hue. Minor surface scratches and pitting visible.
Value Estimate
$25.00 - $65.00 USD. Value is limited due to being plated rather than solid silver and the current condition of the surface finish.
Care & Maintenance
Requires deep cleaning with a non-abrasive silver foam (like Wright's). Do not use dips as they may damage the thinning plate. Store in Pacific Silvercloth to prevent further sulfur reaction.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany & Co. Sterling Entrée dishes (heavier, hallmarked, higher value) or Gorham 'Chantilly' plated servers which share similar scroll motifs.
Interesting Facts
These dishes were often part of 'Chafing' sets. The lids were specifically designed with removable handles so they could be flipped over and used as a second, open serving platter.