Old English Reproduction Silver Plated Rectangular Tray with Sterling Silver Mounts
Hollowware (Serving Tray or Platter) · The marks 'JS' and 'G 1623' indicate a manufacturer likely from Sheffield or Birmingham specializing in high-quality silver plate and reproduction styles; the company 'Old English Reproductions' was a specific trade line targeting early 20th-century customers who desired the aesthetic of 18th-century Georgian silver.
Pattern: Old English Reproduction; part of a series designed to emulate the simplicity and elegance of the 1700s, specifically the Old English style of flatware and hollowware.
Type
Hollowware (Serving Tray or Platter)
Maker
The marks 'JS' and 'G 1623' indicate a manufacturer likely from Sheffield or Birmingham specializing in high-quality silver plate and reproduction styles; the company 'Old English Reproductions' was a specific trade line targeting early 20th-century customers who desired the aesthetic of 18th-century Georgian silver.
Material
Silver Plate (likely Electroplated Nickel Silver) base with Sterling Silver Mounts. The stamp 'W.M. MOUNTS' refers to White Metal or sterling silver applied edges. The main body is plated, while the decorative rims or handles are constructed of solid precious metal.
Dimensions
Estimated length 12-18 inches; weight is significant due to the copper or nickel base metal, likely ranging from 800 to 1,500 grams depending on size.
Description
This rectangular serving tray is a classic example of the Georgian Revival movement. It features a bright-polished silver surface on a durable base metal body, elevated by the addition of solid silver mounts (W.M. Mounts) which provided the tactile quality and longevity of sterling at the points of most frequent contact and wear. It is a functional, heavy-duty piece designed for the elegant service of cocktails or tea.
Key Features
Explicit 'Old English Reproduction' stamp; 'W.M. MOUNTS' designation indicating mixed silver purity; pseudo-hallmarks designed to look like official British assay marks to imply quality.
Material & Composition
Silver Plate (likely Electroplated Nickel Silver) base with Sterling Silver Mounts. The stamp 'W.M. MOUNTS' refers to White Metal or sterling silver applied edges. The main body is plated, while the decorative rims or handles are constructed of solid precious metal.
Finish & Decoration
Bright-polished mirror finish with vertical brushing visible from wear; the 'Old English' style typically features minimalist gadroon or threaded borders and clean, unembellished surfaces intended for formal dining.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'SILVER ON COPPER' or 'SILVER ON AD CO' (partially obscured), 'Old English Reproduction', 'W.M. MOUNTS', 'JS' in square shields (pseudo-hallmarks), and model number 'G 1623'. Note: These are commercial stamps, not official assay hallmarks, though they mimic their appearance.
Construction Details
Machine-pressed or die-struck tray body with hand-applied or soldered sterling silver 'mounts' (rims or borders). The vertical graining suggests a machine-polished industrial finish.
Functional Features
Flat central surface for serving; raised lip to contain spills; potentially includes handles (not visible) or a reinforced base to prevent warping under heat.
Handle & Grip Details
Likely solid metal (silver or plated) if present; the term 'MOUNTS' suggests that the rim and any handles are the pieces of higher silver purity attached to the base.
Craftsmanship Details
Features high-quality industrial plating with hand-finishing on the attached sterling mounts. The clarity of the stamps indicates a professional-grade die tool was used.
Authentication Indicators
The lack of a Lion Passant or a specific assay city mark confirms this is silver plate with sterling components rather than a solid sterling piece. The 'JS' mark is a maker's mark used to create a look of authenticity for reproduction pieces.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely Sheffield, England or an American silversmith in the New England area (such as Sheridan or Leonard) that utilized the 'Old English' branding common in English export markets.
Era & Period
Early to Mid-20th Century (1920-1950); a period of high demand for Georgian-revival pieces that provided a 'stately home' look at a more accessible price point.
Age Estimate
Circa 1930-1940. The typography of the stamps and the use of 'Reproduction' suggest the interwar period or immediate post-WWII era.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the early 20th-century fascination with 18th-century 'Golden Age' English design, moving away from overly ornate Victorian styles toward more restrained, classical forms.
Condition Notes
Very Good. The surface shows light 'spider-web' scratching consistent with regular cleaning. There is no visible 'bleeding' (copper showing through), suggesting the silver layer remains thick. Surface shows horizontal and vertical polishing lines.
Value Estimate
Market value typically ranges from $75 to $150 USD. The 'W.M. Mounts' add slightly more value than standard silver plate, but the lack of a solid sterling body prevents it from reaching the $500+ range.
Care & Maintenance
Apply a high-quality silver cream like Wright's with a soft cloth. Avoid dipping solutions which can damage the 'mount' solder seals. Store in a specialized Pacific Silvercloth drawer liner to prevent sulfur tarnish.
Similar Pieces
Sheffield Plate trays (antique, 1800s) which would have 'rubbed-in' silver shields; contemporary 20th-century Tiffany or Gorham sterling trays which would be much lighter and fully hallmarked.
Interesting Facts
Items marked 'W.M. Mounts' were often preferred by middle-class households because they didn't tarnish as quickly at the edges and handles as pure copper-based plate might, andThey provided a higher 'silver value' than standard electroplate.