Le Bonheur Art Deco Style Silverplate Rectangular Tray
Hollowware (Serving Tray/Platter) · Le Bonheur, a manufacturer often associated with French-style silver-plated giftware and decorative accessories produced for the mid-20th century export market.
Pattern: Floral Leaf Border, characterized by an embossed repeating garland pattern along the rim.
Type
Hollowware (Serving Tray/Platter)
Maker
Le Bonheur, a manufacturer often associated with French-style silver-plated giftware and decorative accessories produced for the mid-20th century export market.
Material
Silver Plated over base metal (likely brass or white metal). There are no sterling markings, and the surface tarnish pattern is consistent with electroplated nickel silver (EPNS).
Dimensions
Estimated at 10 to 12 inches in length. Weight is likely substantial due to the heavy base metal common in utilitarian silverplate, approximately 400-600 grams.
Description
A vintage rectangular silver-plated tray featuring a lush floral repoussé border. The brand 'Le Bonheur' identifies it as a piece of decorative hollowware intended for domestic elegance. Its heavy oxidation suggests it has been stored without protection for many years, giving it a dark, moody patina that hides the original mirror-like or satin plating.
Key Features
The central focal point of identification is the 'Le Bonheur' script and the distinct interlocking monogram. The heavy scrolling leaf border is the primary decorative innovation of the line.
Material & Composition
Silver Plated over base metal (likely brass or white metal). There are no sterling markings, and the surface tarnish pattern is consistent with electroplated nickel silver (EPNS).
Finish & Decoration
The item features a chased or embossed floral leaf border in a high-relief style. The central field is a satin or brushed finish, currently obscured by significant oxidation and pitting. The style is a late Art Deco or Neoclassical revival.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The piece bears a stamped logo of stylized interlocking letters (possibly 'LB' or a modified 'R') above the word 'Le Bonheur' in a script font. No silver purity marks (like the Minerva head or .925) are present.
Construction Details
The piece appears to be die-struck or machine-pressed from a single sheet of metal. The rolled or folded edge provides structural rigidity and hides the base metal core.
Functional Features
Includes a flat serving surface with a raised decorative gallery edge to prevent items from sliding off. The lack of handles suggests it was intended as a vanity tray or a small cocktail tray.
Handle & Grip Details
This specific piece is rim-handled (integrated into the frame) and does not feature separate bail or fixed handles.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-manufactured with die-stamped decoration. The symmetry of the floral pattern indicates mechanical production rather than hand-chasing. The mark is deeply struck but shows some wear at the edges.
Authentication Indicators
The mark is consistent with known Le Bonheur giftware. The lack of standard French silver hallmarks (which are strictly regulated) confirms this is a plated item rather than solid silver.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely France or produced for the Francophone market. 'Le Bonheur' (meaning 'Happiness') is a common brand name for French decorative exports and household gifts.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (circa 1940-1960). The font and stamping style suggest a post-WWII production era looking back at traditional French decorative motifs.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950. Based on the stamping method and the specific typography of the 'Le Bonheur' mark.
Cultural Significance
Represents the mid-century trend of 'affordable elegance,' where mass-produced silverplate allowed middle-class households to emulate the formal dining and vanity service of the aristocracy.
Condition Notes
Fair to Poor condition. The surface shows heavy tarnish, significant pitting, and possible 'plate loss' where the silver layer has worn thin or reacted with moisture. There are visible scratches and dark sulfide deposits throughout the central field.
Value Estimate
$20 - $45 USD. Value is limited by the fact that it is silverplate rather than solid silver, combined with the current poor condition of the surface.
Care & Maintenance
Requires deep cleaning with a non-abrasive silver cream (e.g., Wright's). Since the plating may be thin, avoid heavy scrubbing. Use a soft horsehair brush for the crevices in the floral border.
Similar Pieces
Often confused with Christofle or Ercuis plated wares, though Le Bonheur is generally considered a commercial/gift-tier brand rather than high-end luxury silversmithing.
Interesting Facts
The name 'Le Bonheur' was often used on items given as wedding or anniversary gifts, emphasizing the 'happiness' of the occasion through affordable luxury.