Silver-Gilt or Gold-Plated Brass Ceremonial Plates and Footed Stand
Hollowware and Decorative Objects · Unknown; likely local artisan workshop specializing in religious or celebratory metalware in South/Southeast Asia.
Pattern: Traditional Folk/Liturgical; non-branded artisan production featuring concentric circle etching and leaf-shaped pendants.
Type
Hollowware and Decorative Objects
Maker
Unknown; likely local artisan workshop specializing in religious or celebratory metalware in South/Southeast Asia.
Material
Brass or Bronze base with thin gold-wash or vermeil-style silver-gilt plating; high copper content indicated by the yellowish-warm luster.
Dimensions
Plates: approximately 8-10 inches in diameter; Stand: approximately 6-8 inches in height. Weight is estimated at 300-500g per piece.
Description
A set of gold-toned ceremonial metalware consisting of shallow plates and a decorative footed stand. The plates exhibit a bright, reflective finish with simple geometric engravings, while the stand is adorned with hanging leaf-shaped charms that rattle when moved, suggesting a ritualistic or celebratory function within a household or temple setting.
Key Features
Hanging leaf pendants on the stand; concentric etched circles on the plates; high-gloss gold/brass tone; fluted pedestal base.
Material & Composition
Brass or Bronze base with thin gold-wash or vermeil-style silver-gilt plating; high copper content indicated by the yellowish-warm luster.
Finish & Decoration
Polished gold-tone finish with concentric circle engravings; stand features hanging leaf-motif charms (pendants) and a knurled pillar design.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None visible in the image; typical for this type of regional hand-crafted metalware, which often lacks Western-style assay marks.
Construction Details
Machine-spun plates with hand-etched concentric rings; stand appears cast in multiple sections and hand-assembled with attached charms.
Functional Features
Wide-rimmed flat plates for offerings or dining; footed stand designed to hold incense, a small bowl (vatti), or a candle/lamp.
Handle & Grip Details
None; the stand features a central fluted pillar for gripping during transport or placement.
Craftsmanship Details
Moderate quality; the plates are utility grade spinning, while the stand shows artisanal hand-assembly of prefabricated cast components.
Authentication Indicators
Lack of hallmarks suggests base metal with plating; consistent spinning marks on the underside of trays indicate 20th-century manufacture.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely India or Southeast Asia; manufactured using traditional spinning and casting methods common in regional brassware hubs.
Era & Period
Late 20th Century to Contemporary; follows traditional forms found in the Indian subcontinent or surrounding regions (Pooja/Ceremonial style).
Age Estimate
Circa 1980-present; based on the bright, uniform finish and modern mechanical spinning marks on the plates.
Cultural Significance
Represents the intersection of daily utility and spiritual practice in Asian cultures, where metalware is kept polished to reflect light and prosperity.
Condition Notes
Good condition overall; visible surface scratches ('swirl marks') consistent with regular cleaning; light tarnish in the crevices of the stand; no major structural dents or repairs.
Value Estimate
$40-$120 USD for the set, depending on the actual silver/gold content versus being purely decorative brassware.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with mild soapy water; avoid abrasive silver dips if the gold-tone is a thin plating. Use a soft microfiber cloth to prevent further surface scratching.
Similar Pieces
Sterling silver Thali sets (which would be hallmarked), silver-plated copper trays (with visible red bleed-through), or solid brass household ware.
Interesting Facts
Items like these are often used in 'Thali' style dining or 'Pooja' Hindu prayer rituals, where silver or gold-washed brass represents purity and auspiciousness.