Sheridan Silver Co. Chippendale Style Silver Plated Round Serving Tray
Hollowware (Round Tray/Platter) · Sheridan Silver Co. (a division of Taunton Silversmiths), founded 1946 in Taunton, Massachusetts. Known for mass-market silver-plated hollowware following WWII.
Pattern: Chippendale Scroll with Ornate Floral Border; production era mid-20th century.
Type
Hollowware (Round Tray/Platter)
Maker
Sheridan Silver Co. (a division of Taunton Silversmiths), founded 1946 in Taunton, Massachusetts. Known for mass-market silver-plated hollowware following WWII.
Material
Electroplated Nickel Silver (EPNS) or Copper; silver plate over a base metal alloy. Non-precious core indicated by surface wear patterns and the type of engraving.
Dimensions
Estimated 12" to 14" in diameter. Weight approximately 700-900 grams; substantial feel due to base metal thickness rather than silver content.
Description
This is a classic mid-century American silver-plated tray designed for the hospitality market. It features a lushly decorated center with swirling acanthus leaves and scrolls, framed by a high-relief floral border. While not solid sterling, it exemplifies the post-war boom in affordable luxury housewares.
Key Features
Machine-chased scrollwork floor, applied rocaille border, heavy base metal, circular form.
Material & Composition
Electroplated Nickel Silver (EPNS) or Copper; silver plate over a base metal alloy. Non-precious core indicated by surface wear patterns and the type of engraving.
Finish & Decoration
Bright mirror polish finish. Features a machine-chased (etched) foliate and scroll center well design to disguise scratches. The rim features an applied ornate baroque/rococo border with scrolls and flowers.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Likely stamped on reverse with 'Sheridan' or an 'S' inside a crest, often accompanied by 'Silver on Copper' or 'E.P.C.' (Electroplated Copper).
Construction Details
Machine-stamped tray body with an applied die-cast decorative rim. The center decoration is achieved through machine chasing or chemical etching rather than hand-engraving.
Functional Features
Flat, circular serving surface with a raised lip to prevent slippage. Designed as a cocktail or hors d'oeuvres tray.
Handle & Grip Details
No handles; designed as a platter to be held from underneath or by the raised rim.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial production. The border application is seamless, though the 'engraving' lacks the depth and variation of true hand-wrought craftsmanship.
Authentication Indicators
The blue/grey hue of the metal and the specific repeating nature of the scroll pattern are hallmarks of silver plate rather than sterling. Lack of sterling (.925) markings.
Origin & Manufacturing
USA; Taunton, Massachusetts—traditionally known as 'Silver City'.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern Era (c. 1950s-1970s), designed in the Traditional Revival/Neo-Victorian style.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960-1975 based on the style of the machine chasing and the sticker remnants which suggest modern resale history.
Cultural Significance
Represents the mass-market accessibility of formal dining aesthetics for the middle class in the United States during the mid-20th century.
Condition Notes
Good condition overall. Visibly light surface scratches (swirl marks) from cleaning. Some minor tarnish in the crevices of the border. No major 'bleeding' (base metal showing through) is apparent in the image.
Value Estimate
$15 - $40 USD. Factors include the abundance of these pieces on the secondary market and the fact that it is silver plate rather than solid silver.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with mild soap and water first. Use a non-abrasive silver cream (like Wright's) for tarnish. Avoid 'silver dips' which can strip the thin plating. Store in a tarnish-resistant cloth.
Similar Pieces
International Silver 'Camille' trays or Oneida 'Du Maurier' platters; competitor pieces provide similar looks but may vary in base metal (copper vs lead-free pewter).
Interesting Facts
Sheridan Silver was part of the 'Silver City' industry in Taunton that included giants like Reed & Barton. These trays were ubiquitous wedding gifts in mid-century America.