Italian Silver-Plated Pisciform (Fish-Shaped) Covered Serving Platter
Hollowware (Covered Platter/Tureen) · Attributed to Mauro Manetti or similar Florentine workshops. These makers were prominent in mid-century Italy (1960s-70s) for producing whimsical, brutalist-influenced silver-plated metalware.
Pattern: Animalier Series (Piscine/Fish Pattern). These items were typically part of decorative barware or serving sets and are no longer in mass production.
Type
Hollowware (Covered Platter/Tureen)
Maker
Attributed to Mauro Manetti or similar Florentine workshops. These makers were prominent in mid-century Italy (1960s-70s) for producing whimsical, brutalist-influenced silver-plated metalware.
Material
Silver-plated base metal (likely pewter or brass). The yellowish tone of the handle suggest a brass-based finial, while the body shows heavy oxidation typical of silver-over-cast-metal.
Dimensions
Approximately 18-24 inches in length and 8-10 inches in width. Weight is substantial, likely 2-4 kg due to the heavy cast base metal used for such decorative platters.
Description
An eccentric and bold examples of mid-century Italian design, this fish-shaped platter is a centerpiece for themed entertaining. The piece is highly textured with overlapping scales and features a sculptural dolphin finial. Its elongated form cleverly uses the fish's head and tail as handles for the lower tray, creating a seamless zoomorphic aesthetic.
Key Features
Sculptural dolphin handle; deep relief scale patterning; exaggerated fish-tail terminal; matching head-shaped tray handle.
Material & Composition
Silver-plated base metal (likely pewter or brass). The yellowish tone of the handle suggest a brass-based finial, while the body shows heavy oxidation typical of silver-over-cast-metal.
Finish & Decoration
Brutalist and Figural. The surface features cast-in 'scales' texture and repoussé-style detailing on the head and tail. The finish is currently heavily oxidized with a matte, antiqued appearance.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Typically marked 'M.M. Made in Italy' or 'Lavorazione a Mano' on the underside. Without a visible base photo, it is likely stamped on the bottom rim of the base platter.
Construction Details
Cast metal construction. Unlike fine sterling which is raised from sheets, this is made using molds to achieve the high-relief scale texture. The finial is separately cast and attached.
Functional Features
Removable domed lid to keep contents (likely fish or hors d'oeuvres) warm or protected. The lid rests within a recessed lip on the base tray.
Handle & Grip Details
Figural dolphin or stylized fish finial. It is likely solid cast metal with a threaded screw attachment through the lid. The finish appears worn, revealing a brassy substrate.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial-artisanal hybrid. While the design is sophisticated, the execution relies on heavy molds rather than hand-silversmithing. The detail in the scale texture indicates a high-quality master mold.
Authentication Indicators
Weight and casting texture are consistent with Italian pewter-based plated ware. The style of the 'scales' is a known motif and matches vintage Mauro Manetti or Alessi-style decorative pieces.
Origin & Manufacturing
Florence, Italy. Italian workshops of this era were world-renowned for combining traditional casting methods with modern, whimsical designs.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern / Hollywood Regency (c. 1960-1975). Stylistically reflects the Italian decorative arts trend of playful animal forms popular in the 60s.
Age Estimate
Circa 1965-1970. The design language and casting quality are hallmark indicators of this specific Italian export era.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Hollywood Regency' and 'Brutalist' intersection in Italian export art, where functional dining objects were treated as oversized table sculptures.
Condition Notes
Fair to Poor. Significant tarnish and localized corrosion. The presence of duct tape over the lid suggests a structural failure, a cracked lid, or a broken finial screw. Plating loss is evident on high-relief areas.
Value Estimate
$150 - $350 in excellent condition. In the current 'as-is' condition with potential damage hidden by tape, value is likely $40 - $70 for restoration.
Care & Maintenance
Requires caution. Do not use duct tape as adhesive residue can strip silver plating. Clean with a very mild silver foam (like Hagerty) and a soft brush. Avoid abrasive cleaners that will reveal the base metal.
Similar Pieces
Mauro Manetti Pineapple Ice Buckets (similar casting); Arthur Court Aluminum Platters (American alternative, usually unplated aluminum).
Interesting Facts
Items like this were often sold in high-end department stores like Neiman Marcus or Bergdorf Goodman during the 1960s as luxury imported hostess gifts.