German Silver-Plate Repoussé Tavern Scene Miniature Plaque
Decorative Object (Wall Hanging or Plaque) · Hanau-style silver-plate manufacturer; possibly Hanauer Silberwaren-Manufaktur or similar German workshop specializing in historical revivals.
Pattern: Traditional Tavern Scene / Genre Scene; an 18th-century revival pattern inspired by Dutch masters like Teniers.
Type
Decorative Object (Wall Hanging or Plaque)
Maker
Hanau-style silver-plate manufacturer; possibly Hanauer Silberwaren-Manufaktur or similar German workshop specializing in historical revivals.
Material
Silver-plated base metal (likely nickel silver or brass). Marked '90', indicating the amount of fine silver in grams used to plate 12 spoon/fork sets.
Dimensions
Estimated 10-15cm in diameter or width; relatively lightweight as it is a thin sheet of embossed metal.
Description
This plaque features a classic tavern genre scene, a favorite motif of German silversmiths. It depicts a rustic interior with high-relief figures engaged in social activities, shown through detailed floorboards and a dropped cup. The heavy chasing highlights the textures of the wood and garments.
Key Features
The '90' stamp is the primary indicator of silver plate; the 'HH' mark identifies the manufacturing shop; the tavern scene motif is a characteristic German revival theme.
Material & Composition
Silver-plated base metal (likely nickel silver or brass). Marked '90', indicating the amount of fine silver in grams used to plate 12 spoon/fork sets.
Finish & Decoration
High-relief repoussé and chased decoration depicting a tavern floor with figures, tankards, and furniture. Features antiqued/oxidized recesses for depth.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'HH' inside a double-diamond/lozenge frame and '90' in a vertical rectangle. 'HH' is the maker's mark; '90' is the German silver-plate standard mark.
Construction Details
Machine-stamped or die-struck repoussé from a pre-cast die, likely finished with hand-chasing to sharpen details in the tavern scene.
Functional Features
Purely decorative wall or cabinet piece; likely has a small hanging loop or was originally inset into a wooden box or frame.
Handle & Grip Details
None; the piece is a flat plaque designed for display.
Craftsmanship Details
Highly detailed die-stamping used to create a realistic sense of perspective on the floorboards and figures; industrial quality intended for the mass decorative market.
Authentication Indicators
The '90' mark confirms it is silver-plated rather than sterling. The crispness of the 'HH' stamp is consistent with early 20th-century German industrial manufacturing.
Origin & Manufacturing
Germany, likely Hanau or Solingen. Hanau was the center for 'pseudo-hallmark' and revival silver which this plating style emulates.
Era & Period
German Historicism (Historismus); Late 19th to early 20th century (c. 1880-1920) mimicking earlier Rococo and Baroque styles.
Age Estimate
Circa 1900-1920 based on the '90' plating stamp and the 'HH' monogram style.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Genremalerei' (genre painting) influence on decorative arts, reflecting a nostalgic look back at rural 18th-century life during Germany's industrialization.
Condition Notes
Good condition with significant tarnish and 'rainbow' toning/sulfide deposits. Some wear to the silver plating on high-relief points revealing base metal (bleeding).
Value Estimate
$30 - $75 USD depending on size and if it is part of a larger frame or tray set.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild silver foam and soft brush to protect the thin silver layer; avoid abrasive cloths which will strip the '90' plating and expose the yellow base metal.
Similar Pieces
B.M.F. (Bayerische Metallwarenfabrik) tavern scenes or WMF silver-plate plaques. These often vary by the number of figures and specific maker marks.
Interesting Facts
The '90' mark system was standardized in Germany in the late 19th century to regulate the growing electroplating industry favored by the middle class.