Manning, Bowman & Co. 'Old English Reproduction' Silverplated Serving Tray
Hollowware (Serving Tray/Platter) · Manning, Bowman & Co., founded in 1859 in Meriden, Connecticut. Originally known for high-quality metalware and silver-plated household goods, they became leading manufacturers of 'quality' household appliances and silver-plated accessories in the early 20th century.
Pattern: Old English Reproduction collection; a mid-century line inspired by 18th-century Georgian English silver styles. Production status is discontinued.
Type
Hollowware (Serving Tray/Platter)
Maker
Manning, Bowman & Co., founded in 1859 in Meriden, Connecticut. Originally known for high-quality metalware and silver-plated household goods, they became leading manufacturers of 'quality' household appliances and silver-plated accessories in the early 20th century.
Material
Electroplated Silver on Copper (E.P. ON COPPER). This consists of a base of solid copper that has been electrochemically coated with a thin layer of fine silver. Copper base is visible through tarnish and 'bleeding' on the underside.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter of 10 to 12 inches based on hand scale. Weight would be significant due to the copper base, typically ranging from 400 to 800 grams depending on thickness.
Description
This is a classic American silver-plated serving tray featuring a Georgian-revival aesthetic. Produced by Manning-Bowman during their mid-century peak, the piece utilizes a sturdy copper base for durability. Its 'Old English' design aims to bring the elegance of 18th-century British aristocracy to the American middle-class dining table of the 1950s.
Key Features
Distinctive Aladdin's Lamp trademark; 'E.P. ON COPPER' designation which is highly sought after by those who like 'bleeding' (copper showing through silver); scalloped or decorated rim.
Material & Composition
Electroplated Silver on Copper (E.P. ON COPPER). This consists of a base of solid copper that has been electrochemically coated with a thin layer of fine silver. Copper base is visible through tarnish and 'bleeding' on the underside.
Finish & Decoration
Polished silver finish with a decorative 'Mount' or border (likely Shell and Scroll or Gadroon based on typical designs of this line). Style is Neoclassical/Georgian Revival. The center surface shows heavy circular cleaning scratches.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped with an Aladdin's Lamp logo (Manning-Bowman's trademark), 'OLD ENGLISH REPRODUCTION' in banners, 'E.P. ON COPPER', 'DUAL POLISHED', and the model number '2594'.
Construction Details
Machine-pressed or spun copper body with die-struck or cast applied decorative borders. The finish is electroplated rather than hand-wrought.
Functional Features
Flat serving surface with a raised lip to prevent spills; weighted feel for stability during service. The 'Dual Polished' stamp indicates a factory finish designed for high luster.
Handle & Grip Details
Non-handled variant (Salver style). The grip is provided by the decorative molded rim.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial-grade production. The stamping of the hallmark is crisp, indicating good die maintenance. The plating appears thick enough to have survived decades without significant 'burning' or base metal exposure on the front face.
Authentication Indicators
The markings are clear and consistent with Manning-Bowman factory standards. The 'copper' stamp accurately reflects the base metal revealed by the warm orange-red reflections in the center of the image.
Origin & Manufacturing
USA; Meriden, Connecticut. Meriden was known as 'Silver City' due to the concentration of major silver manufacturers like International Silver and Manning-Bowman.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (circa 1940-1960). While the design is a reproduction of 1700s Georgian style, the manufacturing techniques and stamping are distinctly 20th-century American.
Age Estimate
Likely produced between 1945 and 1955 based on the style of the Aladdin's lamp logo and the 'Dual Polished' marketing stamp.
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-WWII American interest in traditional European 'Old World' styles for formal dining, bridging the gap between functional housewares and status symbols.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Significant surface scratching ('swirl marks') from improper cleaning with abrasive pads. Light tarnish and fingerprint oils visible. No major dents or deep gouges apparent in the image.
Value Estimate
$20 - $45 USD. As a silver-plated item on copper (not sterling), value is driven by utility and decorative appeal rather than metal content.
Care & Maintenance
Never use abrasive pads or 'dip' cleaners. Use a mild silver cream (Wright's or Hagerty's) and a soft cotton cloth. Store in a tarnish-proof flannel bag (Pacific Silvercloth) to minimize the need for polishing, which eventually wears away the silver layer.
Similar Pieces
International Silver 'Countess' pattern or Sheridan Silver Co. platters. Manning-Bowman pieces are generally considered slightly higher quality than generic department store silver plate of the same era.
Interesting Facts
Manning-Bowman is actually more famous today among modernists for their electrical appliances (like Art Deco toasters) designed by Lurelle Guild, though their silver-plated hollowware remained a staple of bridal registries for decades.