Persian Islamic Style Engraved Silver-Plated Salver
Hollowware (Tray/Salver) · Likely Middle Eastern or Indian workshop (unspecified manufacturer), often produced for the export or local luxury market.
Pattern: Arabesque and Interlocking Geometric Medallion Pattern
Type
Hollowware (Tray/Salver)
Maker
Likely Middle Eastern or Indian workshop (unspecified manufacturer), often produced for the export or local luxury market.
Material
Silver plate over base metal (likely brass or nickel silver), evidenced by the yellowish tint visible on the worn rim.
Dimensions
Estimated 10-12 inches in diameter; approximate weight 400-600 grams depending on base metal density.
Description
This circular salver features an intricate web of Islamic-inspired geometric and floral motifs. The central design is composed of interlocking lines creating a star-like effect, surrounded by scrolling foliage that fills the entire well. The deep, tiered rim provides a bold frame, though it lacks the hand-chased depth of antique counterparts, making it a functional and attractive piece for modern decor.
Key Features
Dense 'horror vacui' engraving style, tiered architectural rim, and distinct yellow-brass bleed-through on the outer edges.
Material & Composition
Silver plate over base metal (likely brass or nickel silver), evidenced by the yellowish tint visible on the worn rim.
Finish & Decoration
Acid-etched or machine-engraved Arabesque surface with interlocking scrolls, floral motifs, and a central geometric medallion; polished raised rims.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None visible in image; commonly found with 'EPNS' or regional artisan stamps on the underside.
Construction Details
Spun base with a machine-stamped or etched decorative well; the multi-tiered rim suggests a modern industrial pressing process.
Functional Features
Raised rim to prevent items from sliding; flat central well suitable for serving tea or displaying decorative objects.
Handle & Grip Details
Rim-only design; no separate handles or grips attached.
Craftsmanship Details
Commercial grade; the decoration is precise but shallow, indicating chemical etching or a shallow die-stamp rather than manual engraving.
Authentication Indicators
Lack of crispness in the 'engraving' suggests etching rather than hand-chasing; wear patterns show a clear base metal contrast inconsistent with solid sterling.
Origin & Manufacturing
Possibly Egypt, Morocco, or India; manufactured using modern mass-production techniques mimicking traditional hand-hammered looks.
Era & Period
Late 20th Century (Modern) following traditional Islamic and Persian design aesthetics.
Age Estimate
Circa 1970-1990; based on the regularity of the engraving and the specific wear pattern on the electroplate.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the global popularity of 'Orientalist' and Middle Eastern metalware in the mid-to-late 20th century as home decor.
Condition Notes
Good; significant tarnish and oxidation in the crevices of the engraving. The 'plate-wear' on the rim indicates the silver layer is thinning, exposing the base metal.
Value Estimate
$20 - $50 USD; value is primarily decorative rather than intrinsic or historical.
Care & Maintenance
Gentle hand washing with mild soap; use a non-abrasive silver cream like Wright's. Avoid heavy rubbing on the rim to prevent further loss of silver plating.
Similar Pieces
Christofle 'Malmaison' (much higher quality), various White Metal trays from Moroccan souks, or silver-over-copper trays from Sheffield.
Interesting Facts
The patterns used here are based on 10th-century Islamic geometric principles intended to represent the infinite nature of creation.