Dogale Silver Plated and Murano Glass Oval Serving Tray
Hollowware / Serving Tray · Dogale (a brand by Greggio Argenteria). Dogale is a prestigious Italian luxury brand based in the Veneto region, known for combining traditional Murano glass techniques with silver-plated finishes.
Pattern: Dogale Contemporary Collection; typically identified by the fusion of hand-decorated glass and a protective silver-colored coating.
Type
Hollowware / Serving Tray
Maker
Dogale (a brand by Greggio Argenteria). Dogale is a prestigious Italian luxury brand based in the Veneto region, known for combining traditional Murano glass techniques with silver-plated finishes.
Material
The item is Silver Plated (marked 'Silver Plated') over a base of hand-decorated glass (likely Murano glass). It is not solid sterling silver. The weight is largely attributed to the thick glass substrate.
Dimensions
Estimated length 35-45cm. As a glass-based piece, it will be significantly heavier than a standard silver-plated metal tray of the same size.
Description
A striking example of Italian design, this Dogale tray merges the transparency and color of glass with the lustrous sheen of silver plating. The piece features a vibrant pink-hued glass core that glows at the edges, surrounded by a broad, polished silver-plated face. The clean lines and integrated handles make it a functional centerpiece for modern interiors.
Key Features
The distinctive 'Dogale' stamp and the unique combination of silver plating directly on a glass substrate. The reflective surface is intentionally designed not to tarnish like standard silver.
Material & Composition
The item is Silver Plated (marked 'Silver Plated') over a base of hand-decorated glass (likely Murano glass). It is not solid sterling silver. The weight is largely attributed to the thick glass substrate.
Finish & Decoration
Polished mirror finish on the silvered surface. The item features a modern, minimalist design with a smooth, reflective surface and a decorative colored glass border (visible as pink/peach). It lacks traditional engraving but relies on the interplay of light and color.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The stamp reads 'DOGALE' in a stylistic arc, with 'SILVER PLATED' above it and 'MADE IN ITALY' below it. This is a modern manufacturer's mark rather than a traditional assay hallmark.
Construction Details
Produced by applying a layer of silver plating onto a glass surface using a specialized bonding process developed by Greggio. The shapes are formed through glass-making techniques (casting or slumping) rather than traditional silversmithing.
Functional Features
Includes integrated handle cutouts for carrying. The surface is treated to be resistant to oxidation, meaning it requires less polishing than traditional silver-on-brass plating.
Handle & Grip Details
Integrated oval-shaped cutout handles formed directly into the glass body. The edges appear smooth and rounded for ergonomic handling.
Craftsmanship Details
Expertly bonded silver-to-glass finish. The symmetry of the handle cutouts and the consistency of the glass color indicate high-quality industrial design blended with artisanal finishing.
Authentication Indicators
Clear manufacturer's mark 'DOGALE' and 'MADE IN ITALY'. The reflection quality and the visible glass thickness at the handle cutout confirm its identity as a Dogale production piece.
Origin & Manufacturing
Made in Italy, specifically associated with the Venetian glass-making tradition and the Padova-based Greggio Group silversmiths.
Era & Period
Contemporary / Modern (late 20th to early 21st century). The design reflects modern Italian luxury aesthetics, focusing on materiality and bold colors.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990-present day. The branding and construction method are indicative of modern luxury production rather than an antique.
Cultural Significance
Represents the evolution of the Italian silver industry, moving from traditional utilitarian flatware into high-concept luxury home decor that blends the regional crafts of Venetian glass and Padovan silver.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. The image shows significant surface scratching and micro-abrasions, likely from cleaning with abrasive cloths or general use. There is visible smudging and light atmospheric residue but no apparent chips in the glass.
Value Estimate
$150 - $450 USD depending on the size and specific color series. The presence of surface scratches seen in the photo would likely place this on the lower end of that range ($150-$200).
Care & Maintenance
Do not use abrasive silver polishes. Clean with a soft, damp microfiber cloth and mild soap. Avoid soaking in water. Handle with care as the core is glass and can shatter if dropped.
Similar Pieces
Greggio Silver Plated trays, Venini glass trays, or Alessi stainless steel trays. The main difference is the glass-silver fusion which is specific to Dogale.
Interesting Facts
The Dogale process is unique because it allows silver to be applied to glass without the silver flaking off over time, a technique that Greggio perfected to modernize the 'veneziano' style.