Mid-Century Modern Octagonal Sterling Silver Tea Tray with Floral Engraving
Hollowware (Tray/Platter) · Likely American or European manufacture. The unidentifiable hallmarks at the top edge suggest a major manufacturer such as Gorham, Reed & Barton, or a Danish workshop like Georg Jensen (based on the clean lines and stylized botanical engraving).
Pattern: Geometric Octagonal with custom or line-specific floral bright-cut engraving; production likely ceased by the 1970s.
Type
Hollowware (Tray/Platter)
Maker
Likely American or European manufacture. The unidentifiable hallmarks at the top edge suggest a major manufacturer such as Gorham, Reed & Barton, or a Danish workshop like Georg Jensen (based on the clean lines and stylized botanical engraving).
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity) based on the luster and lack of characteristic plate wear; potential for European 800-900 silver depending on the specific hallmarks.
Dimensions
Estimated 14-18 inches in length; approximately 800-1,200 grams based on typical gauge thickness for a serving tray of this size.
Description
This elegant sterling silver tray features a bold octagonal silhouette that provides a sophisticated architectural frame for its delicate central engraving. The contrast between the rigid geometric outer form and the fluid, hand-etched floral sprigs creates a balanced aesthetic typical of high-end mid-century silver.
Key Features
Distinctive clipped-corner octagonal shape and asymmetrical floral motif that deviates from traditional Victorian or Georgian symmetry.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity) based on the luster and lack of characteristic plate wear; potential for European 800-900 silver depending on the specific hallmarks.
Finish & Decoration
Polished mirror finish with bright-cut floral engraving featuring lilies and hibiscus-style blooms; Art Deco influenced geometric shape with Mid-Century Modern simplicity.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Marks are visible on the top rim but too blurry to resolve; likely includes a 'Sterling' or decimal mark alongside a maker's cartouche and potential date code.
Construction Details
Likely die-struck or machine-rolled with a hand-engraved surface; edges are cleanly mitered or stamped to create the raised octagonal gallery.
Functional Features
Raised gallery rim to prevent items from sliding; flat surface intended for a three to five-piece tea or coffee service.
Handle & Grip Details
Handleless design (Sandwich or Waiter style); the outer rim acts as the grip for carrying.
Craftsmanship Details
Excellent precision in the geometric angles; engraving shows varying line depths, indicating hand-tooling rather than laser or machine etching.
Authentication Indicators
The color of the tarnish (warm grey vs. blue-black) and the sharpness of the engraving suggest solid silver rather than plate. Hallmark location on the top rim is consistent with mid-century American practices.
Origin & Manufacturing
Most likely USA (New England area) or Denmark, given the specific style of the floral engraving which mimics Scandinavian botanical art.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (c.1945-1960) with late Art Deco design remnants (c.1930s style geometric form).
Age Estimate
Estimated production date circa 1940-1955 based on the transition from geometric Art Deco to the botanical minimalism of the MCM era.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Modern' movement in domestic silver where utility met abstract or nature-inspired art, moving away from the heavy ornamentation of the previous century.
Condition Notes
Very Good condition; shows minor surface 'butler's marks' (light scratches) and some localized tarnish in the crevices of the rim. No significant dents or deep gouges visible.
Value Estimate
Market value ranges from $800 to $1,500 based on silver weight and brand identification; value increases if hallmarks confirm a prestige maker.
Care & Maintenance
Hand polish with Wright's Silver Cream using a soft sponge; avoid circular motions on the flat mirror surface to prevent 'swirl marks'. Store in a Pacific Silvercloth bag.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany & Co. 'Hamilton' pattern trays (more rounded) or Georg Jensen 'Cactus' era hollowware (more stylized).
Interesting Facts
Trays of this specific octagonal shape were popular during the 1940s as 'cocktail trays' as much as tea trays, reflecting the shift in social entertaining post-WWII.