Silver-Plated Grape and Vine Repoussé Oval Bread Tray
Hollowware (Bread Tray / Serving Platter) · Likely a mid-century manufacturer such as Sheridan, Leonard, or Poole Silver Co. These American companies specialized in heavy silver-plated hollowware for the mass market during the 1950s-1970s.
Pattern: Grape and Vine (Vintage) Pattern; a ubiquitous design in silver plating featuring stylized clusters of grapes and vine leaves.
Type
Hollowware (Bread Tray / Serving Platter)
Maker
Likely a mid-century manufacturer such as Sheridan, Leonard, or Poole Silver Co. These American companies specialized in heavy silver-plated hollowware for the mass market during the 1950s-1970s.
Material
Silver plate over base metal (likely copper or white metal / EPNS). The high-shine surface and visible wear patterns on the edges suggest electroplated silver rather than solid sterling.
Dimensions
Approximately 12-14 inches in length and 6-8 inches in width. Weight is likely substantial (500-800g) due to the copper or base metal core typical of 'heavy' plate items.
Description
A classic examples of mid-century entertaining ware, this oval bread tray features a robust Grape and Vine motif. The center is ornately decorated with Victorian-regency revival scrolls surrounding a vacant central cartouche. Its reflective surface and heavy weight make it an impressive tabletop piece despite its plated composition.
Key Features
The 'Grape and Vine' applied border is the primary identifying feature. The diapered (criss-cross) patterns within the center scrolls are classic indicators of 20th-century mass-produced plateau.
Material & Composition
Silver plate over base metal (likely copper or white metal / EPNS). The high-shine surface and visible wear patterns on the edges suggest electroplated silver rather than solid sterling.
Finish & Decoration
Features an applied die-cast grape and vine border with a chased/machine-stamped center well containing scrolls, acanthus leaves, and diapering (lattice pattern). The finish is high-polish mirror silver.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Likely stamped on the reverse with 'Silver on Copper' or 'E.P.W.M.' (Electroplated White Metal) along with a manufacturer's shield or logo. Absence of 'Sterling' or '925' marks effectively confirms it as plated.
Construction Details
Machine-pressed body with die-cast decorative borders that have been soldered to the rim. The center engraving is likely machine-stamped or etched rather than hand-chased.
Functional Features
Concave oval well designed for serving bread, rolls, or asparagus. The raised decor on the rim provides a non-slip grip for serving.
Handle & Grip Details
No distinct handles; the scalloped and textured grape-vine rim acts as the primary grip surface.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial-grade craftsmanship. The applied border is well-integrated, but the center motif lack the depth of hand-chased silver. It is a sturdy, well-made piece of commercial hollowware.
Authentication Indicators
Lack of sterling hallmarks; presence of 'Silver on Copper' logic; machine-perfect symmetry in the center etching; weight-to-size ratio characteristic of base metal.
Origin & Manufacturing
Most likely USA (Providence, RI or Taunton, MA area), which was the hub for silver-plate production in the mid-century.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (c. 1950-1970). It reflects the Neo-Baroque revival style popular in post-war American dining culture.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960. The crispness of the stamp and the specific style of the applied border are hallmarks of mid-century mass production.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Sunday Dinner' culture of the mid-20th century American middle class, where silver-plated hollowware was used to emulate European aristocratic dining traditions at an affordable price point.
Condition Notes
Overall Good to Very Good. There are visible surface scratches in the well from utensil use. Some 'bleeding' (copper showing through) may be present on the high points of the grape clusters or the sharp edges of the rim.
Value Estimate
$15 - $45 USD. Value is primarily decorative/functional rather than intrinsic, as there is no significant scrap silver value.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with mild soap and water. Use a non-abrasive silver cream like Wright's. Avoid the dishwasher, as high heat and detergent will strip the silver plating and expose the copper base.
Similar Pieces
International Silver 'Vintage' pattern (more refined), Wallace 'Grand Baroque' plated line, or Sheffield Reproduction silver-on-copper trays.
Interesting Facts
The 'Grape' motif is one of the oldest in silver history, symbolizing abundance and Bacchus (the god of wine). It became a staple for American silver-plate companies because the cast borders effectively hid solder seams.