Middle Eastern tinned brass or copper etched tray
Hollowware (serving tray/platter) · Unmarked artisan workshop, likely Egyptian or Moroccan
Pattern: Traditional geometric and floral foliate folk pattern
Type
Hollowware (serving tray/platter)
Maker
Unmarked artisan workshop, likely Egyptian or Moroccan
Material
Brass or copper base with a decorative tinned surface coating
Dimensions
Estimated 30-45 cm diameter; light to moderate weight based on gauge
Description
A circular tinned brass tray featuring a central cruciform floral motif surrounded by repetitive geometric hatching and scale patterns typical of Middle Eastern bazaar metalwork.
Key Features
Geometric hand-chasing, quatrefoil central design, and tinned finish mimic genuine silver
Material & Composition
Brass or copper base with a decorative tinned surface coating
Finish & Decoration
Etched and chased surface with bright-cut style tool masking; oxidized golden hue
Hallmarks & Stamps
None visible; typically lacks formal assay marks unless from a major city guild
Construction Details
Raised and spun metal sheet with hand-hammered and hand-etched surface work
Functional Features
Turned-up rim for containment; low-profile platter designed for tea or fruit service
Handle & Grip Details
None; integrated flat rim for lifting
Craftsmanship Details
Hand-etched but mass-produced for the tourist or local household market; shows varying depth in chasing
Authentication Indicators
Lack of hallmarks and uneven pattern spacing confirm hand-worked souvenir/artisan origin
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely North Africa (Morocco or Egypt) or the Levant, following bazaar traditions
Era & Period
Modern period (mid-20th century to contemporary), folk art tradition
Age Estimate
Late 20th century, circa 1970–1990
Cultural Significance
A representation of hospitality rituals in Arab and Maghrebi cultures
Condition Notes
Good; showing surface tarnish, minor scratches, and wear to the tinned layer exposing brass/copper base
Value Estimate
$20–$50 USD based on being a non-silver alloy/souvenir-grade item
Care & Maintenance
Clean with mild soap; avoid abrasive silver polish which will strip the thin tinned coating
Similar Pieces
Talavera silver-plated trays or Syrian damascened metalwork (the latter includes silver inlay)
Interesting Facts
These trays are often used to serve mint tea and were popular souvenirs for Western travelers in the 20th century