Middle Eastern Vermeil .800 Silver Tea Saucer or Small Alms Dish
Hollowware/Tea Service Accessory · Likely Egyptian or Ottoman-style workshop; often produced by independent silversmiths in regional bazaars specializing in high-grade silver trade.
Pattern: Traditional Islamic/Ottoman Floral Scroll and Arabesque pattern; communal design style commonly used for tea services and small decorative platters.
Type
Hollowware/Tea Service Accessory
Maker
Likely Egyptian or Ottoman-style workshop; often produced by independent silversmiths in regional bazaars specializing in high-grade silver trade.
Material
Likely 800 Silver (Coin/Continental Standard) with Vermeil (Gold wash) finish; base is solid silver with a heavy gold electroplate or wash overlay.
Dimensions
Estimated 10-12 cm (4-5 inches) in diameter; approximate weight 60-90 grams; fits standard small tea glass or 'fincan' size.
Description
An elegant vermeil silver saucer featuring a radiant gold-over-silver finish. The rim is intricately decorated with a continuous band of chased floral scrolls and delicate punchwork. The central basin is polished to a high luster, designed to reflect the light through a glass of tea. This piece represents the opulent hospitality traditions of the Middle East.
Key Features
Deep golden vermeil finish, scalloped pie-crust rim, traditional floral chasing, and the specific 'well' depth meant for Middle Eastern tea culture.
Material & Composition
Likely 800 Silver (Coin/Continental Standard) with Vermeil (Gold wash) finish; base is solid silver with a heavy gold electroplate or wash overlay.
Finish & Decoration
Repoussé and chased floral motifs on the rim with a stippled background; mirror-polished center; scalloped 'pie crust' edge with fine beaded detailing.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Marks are not clearly visible in the image, but would typically be located on the reverse or rim edge, likely containing an Arabic or Turkish assay mark (Tughra) or numeric fineness (800/900).
Construction Details
Hand-raised from a flat silver sheet; decoration applied via manual chasing and chasing; rim has been worked to a thin, decorative edge.
Functional Features
Indented central well specifically designed to hold a footed glass or cup securely; raised rim to catch spills or hold small sweets like Turkish delight.
Handle & Grip Details
None; traditional saucer form designed for two-finger lift from the underside.
Craftsmanship Details
Hand-executed chasing shows slight irregularities in the floral pattern spacing, confirming it was worked by an artisan rather than a hydraulic press.
Authentication Indicators
The color tone suggests a standard 24k gold wash over silver; wear patterns in the center where a glass would sit are consistent with authentic metal-on-metal friction.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely Cairo, Egypt or Istanbul, Turkey; made in traditional metal-working quarters like Khan el-Khalili or the Grand Bazaar.
Era & Period
Modern Traditional (20th Century); captures motifs from the late Ottoman/Khedivate period (1880-1920) but likely manufactured mid-to-late 20th century.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950–1980; based on the application of the gold wash and the level of mechanical precision in the rim's scalloped edge.
Cultural Significance
Essential to the 'Ahwa' or coffee house culture in the Mediterranean; signifies hospitality and the prestige of the host in domestic settings.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good; significant surface scratches in the central well indicative of heavy use. Some wear to the gold wash (pinking/silvering) visible on high points. No major dents or repairs.
Value Estimate
$75 - $150 USD; value is primarily in the silver weight plus a premium for the decorative vermeil finish and regional craftsmanship.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with mild soapy water only; avoid silver dips or abrasive polishes which will strip the thin gold layer. Store in a soft cloth bag to prevent further center scratching.
Similar Pieces
Often confused with brass or gold-plated copper; the weight and hallmark (if present) distinguish the high-value silver core from base metal alternatives.
Interesting Facts
Vermeil was originally used to mimic solid gold for the nobility at a lower price point and to prevent the silver from tarnishing and affecting the taste of tea.