Mass-Produced Brass Alms Dish Style Wall Plaque (Revenge Motif)
Decorative Object / Wall Plaque · Unknown manufacturer, likely 20th-century European or Indian export factory. Not a recognized luxury silversmith brand.
Pattern: Elizabethan Revival 'The Revenge' motif; a common 20th-century decorative design based on Sir Richard Grenville's ship.
Type
Decorative Object / Wall Plaque
Maker
Unknown manufacturer, likely 20th-century European or Indian export factory. Not a recognized luxury silversmith brand.
Material
Brass (Copper-Zinc alloy). This item is not silver; it lacks silver hallmarks and displays the characteristic golden hue and oxidation of brass.
Dimensions
Estimated 10-12 inches in diameter. Weight is approximately 300-500 grams. Thinner than traditional hand-wrought antique alms dishes.
Description
A decorative brass wall plaque featuring a pressed relief of a Tudor-era galleon, possibly depicting 'The Revenge'. The piece utilizes a repeating arched border motif and is intended to mimic the appearance of historical Dutch or English brassware.
Key Features
Yellow brass color, 'The Revenge' ship motif, stamped scalloped border, and lack of silver marks.
Material & Composition
Brass (Copper-Zinc alloy). This item is not silver; it lacks silver hallmarks and displays the characteristic golden hue and oxidation of brass.
Finish & Decoration
Machine-stamped repoussé style. Features a scalloped border with arch and ball motifs and a central relief of a 16th-century galleon. The finish is polished brass with artificial antiquing in the crevices.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None visible. Likely unmarked or stamped 'MADE IN ENGLAND' or 'MADE IN INDIA' on the reverse. It lacks the Lion Passant or 925 sterling marks.
Construction Details
Machine-pressed from a thin sheet of brass. The crispness of the border repeating exactly suggests industrial die-stamping rather than hand-chasing.
Functional Features
Purely decorative. Usually includes a small wire loop on the back for wall mounting. Not suitable for food use or as a functional basin.
Handle & Grip Details
No handles or grips present; the rim is rolled or simple cut edge characteristic of wall hangings.
Craftsmanship Details
Commercial grade craftsmanship. The relief is shallow and the metal is thin, typical of mass-produced decorative metalwork rather than fine art silver.
Authentication Indicators
The bright yellow metallic color confirms it is brass, not silver. The uniformity of the stamped border indicates machine manufacture.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely United Kingdom (Birmingham) or India. These were popular souvenir and home decor items in the mid-20th century.
Era & Period
20th Century Elizabethan Revival (c. 1920-1970). It mimics the style of 16th and 17th-century brass alms dishes.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1970. The condition and metal tone suggest a vintage mid-century piece rather than a true antique.
Cultural Significance
Represents the trend of historical revivalism in home decor, making museum-style 'treasures' accessible to the middle class.
Condition Notes
Good vintage condition. Minor surface scratches and typical brass oxidation/tarnish. Some evidence of past polishing which has smoothed high points.
Value Estimate
$15 - $40 USD. These are common in thrift stores and antique malls as decorative 'bric-a-brac'.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with mild soap and water; polish with Brasso or Goddard’s Brass Polish if a bright shine is desired. Avoid acidic cleaners.
Similar Pieces
Genuine 17th-century Nuremberg alms dishes (hand-hammered, thicker, heavier) or silver-plated versions by makers like Elkington (which would have marks).
Interesting Facts
Designs like these were often sold in gift shops and department stores to evoke a sense of 'Olde England' history in mid-century homes.