Mayell & Co. Silver-Plated Table Accessory (likely a Compote or Cake Stand)
Hollowware (Table Accessory, potentially a Pedestal Bowl or Cake Stand) · Mayell & Co. (W.G. Mayell), a manufacturer based in Wednesbury and Birmingham, England. Founded in the mid-20th century, they were known for producing high-volume, accessible silver-plated giftware and tableware during the post-war era.
Pattern: Standard Twentieth Century Production (likely unidentified decorative pattern), mid-20th century, discontinued.
Type
Hollowware (Table Accessory, potentially a Pedestal Bowl or Cake Stand)
Maker
Mayell & Co. (W.G. Mayell), a manufacturer based in Wednesbury and Birmingham, England. Founded in the mid-20th century, they were known for producing high-volume, accessible silver-plated giftware and tableware during the post-war era.
Material
Electroplated Nickel Silver (EPNS) on a steel base. The mark 'ep on steel' indicates a layer of silver electro-deposited over a stainless or carbon steel core, rather than the more common nickel silver or brass base.
Dimensions
Undetermined from image; however, the base appears to be a standard table-top pedestal size (3-5 inch diameter). Weight will be significantly heavier than sterling due to the steel core.
Description
This is a view of the underside of a silver-plated table piece by the English firm Mayell. It represents the transition of silver from artisanal luxury to accessible mid-century giftware. The piece utilizes a steel base for durability, electroplated with a thin layer of silver for an elegant appearance. The functional screw at the center is typical of British-made pedestaled items of this era.
Key Features
The 'ep on steel' designation and the central screw-bolt assembly mechanism are the primary diagnostic features for this type of modern plated ware.
Material & Composition
Electroplated Nickel Silver (EPNS) on a steel base. The mark 'ep on steel' indicates a layer of silver electro-deposited over a stainless or carbon steel core, rather than the more common nickel silver or brass base.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish. This specific view shows the underside of a pedestal base with a central screw assembly. The visible surface appears undecorated and utilitarian, typical of industrial-age silver plate.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped with 'Mayell ep on steel' in a gothic/serif arc across the top, and 'Made in England' in the same font across the bottom. These are commercial manufacturers' marks rather than state-regulated hallmarks.
Construction Details
Machine-manufactured. The piece is assembled using a central threaded screw and bolt system (visible in the center of the image), which joins the base to the upper bowl or plate. This is a characteristic of mass-produced 20th-century hollowware.
Functional Features
Modular assembly via a central screw, allowing for disassembly during deep cleaning or flat shipping. The steel core provides significant structural strength and weight to prevent tipping.
Handle & Grip Details
Not visible in image; focuses on the base assembly.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial quality. The stamping is clear and deep, but the use of a simple hardware-store style screw for assembly indicates purely functional, machine-led construction rather than fine craftsmanship.
Authentication Indicators
The marks are consistent with known mid-century Mayell production. The presence of a steel screw instead of a soldered silver-alloy joint confirms its status as industrial silver plate rather than sterling.
Origin & Manufacturing
Made in England, specifically the Birmingham/West Midlands area, which was a hub for silver plate and steel manufacturing during this period.
Era & Period
Mid-Century / Post-War British Industrial (1950s-1970s). The font and manufacturing style are indicative of mid-century mass production.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1975. The specific 'Mayell' branding and the use of 'ep on steel' are most common in catalog-order giftware from the 1960s.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of 'silver' tableware in the post-war era, where industrial techniques allowed working-class families to afford formal-looking dining accessories.
Condition Notes
Good overall condition. There is visible oxidation/rust around the central screw head, suggesting moisture penetration into the steel core. Surface tarnish is present but can be polished.
Value Estimate
$15 - $45 USD. Value is largely decorative; there is no intrinsic precious metal value due to the steel core and thin plating.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with mild soap and dry immediately to prevent the steel core from rusting. Use a soft silver cloth for polishing. Avoid immersion in water because liquid can seep into the screw housing and cause internal corrosion.
Similar Pieces
Often confused with Viners of Sheffield or Yeoman Plate. Key difference is the 'ep on steel' composition, as most competitors used 'EPNS' (on nickel silver) which did not rust at the seams.
Interesting Facts
Mayell is best known for their 'Queen Anne' style glass and silver plate butter dishes and condiment sets which were staples of middle-class British households in the 1960s.