Pewter or Silver Plate Chippendale Style Scalloped Charger
Hollowware (Platter/Charger/Service Plate) · Unknown/Unattributed; the style is typical of mid-20th-century reproductions by companies like Wilton, Revere, or decorative houseware brands.
Pattern: Chippendale Style (Scalloped Edge with Reeds)
Type
Hollowware (Platter/Charger/Service Plate)
Maker
Unknown/Unattributed; the style is typical of mid-20th-century reproductions by companies like Wilton, Revere, or decorative houseware brands.
Material
Likely Pewter, Armetale (aluminum alloy), or heavily worn Silver Plate over a base metal (white metal/copper). The lack of sterling tarnish suggests a non-silver or pewter composition.
Dimensions
Estimated 10-12 inches in diameter; likely weighing between 500-800 grams depending on whether it is pewter or silver-plated copper.
Description
A classic scalloped-edge charger plate featuring the timeless Chippendale silhouette. The piece exhibits a muted, satiny luster and significant surface wear, suggesting it was used frequently as a service piece or decorative tray. Its simple elegance reflects the Colonial Revival movement of the mid-20th century.
Key Features
Characteristic six-lobed scalloped rim with subtle raised reeding and a wide, plain circular well.
Material & Composition
Likely Pewter, Armetale (aluminum alloy), or heavily worn Silver Plate over a base metal (white metal/copper). The lack of sterling tarnish suggests a non-silver or pewter composition.
Finish & Decoration
Satin brushed finish with a scalloped 'Chippendale' rim featuring molded reeding. The surface shows heavy scratching and a matte luster typical of utilitarian metalware.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not visible in the image; likely stamped on the reverse with a maker's logo or 'Pewter'/'Silverplate' mark. The absence of top-side hallmarks is standard for this form.
Construction Details
Cast or die-struck piece with a molded decorative edge; typical mass-production manufacturing for 20th-century decorative hollowware.
Functional Features
Wide flat well for serving or supporting a dinner plate; reinforced rim for structural integrity and ease of handling.
Handle & Grip Details
None; simple rim-based grip.
Craftsmanship Details
Commercial grade; decorative elements are consistent and symmetrical, signifying mechanical production rather than hand-chasing or artisanal smithing.
Authentication Indicators
Symmetry and smoothness of the molded edge indicate machine manufacture; the gray-white metal tone and scratch patterns are consistent with pewter or low-grade silver plate.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely United States or Europe; produced in a commercial foundry or metalware factory.
Era & Period
Modern Reproduction (circa 1950-1980) of an 18th-century Georgian/Chippendale design.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960-1975 based on the surface wear, material patina, and style of the edge molding.
Cultural Significance
A staple of the formal 'Grandmillennial' or Colonial Revival tabletop, representing a middle-class aspiration toward traditional European and early American status symbols.
Condition Notes
Fair condition; surface exhibits extensive 'knife marks' and circular scratches. Significant dulling of the finish. No major dents or cracks, but shows heavy aesthetic wear.
Value Estimate
$10 - $35 USD; value is limited by the commonality of the pattern and the heavy surface wear.
Care & Maintenance
Wash with mild soap and water; if pewter, do not use silver polish as it may strip the patina. If silver plate, a light cream polish may restore some shine, though deep scratches will remain.
Similar Pieces
Wilton Armetale 'Chippendale' platters (more durable aluminum alloy) or Gorham Sterling 'Chippendale' trays (vastly more valuable and lustrous).
Interesting Facts
Chippendale silver and pewter patterns were incredibly popular in the US during the 1976 Bicentennial era as part of a renewed interest in Early American design.