Mid-Century Modern Silver Plate Recessed Serving Tray with Bakelite Handles
Hollowware, Rectangular Serving Tray · Likely European (French or Italian) or American manufacturer of chrome/silver-plated barware such as Manning-Bowman, Chase Brass & Copper, or Christofle. The design suggests a manufacturer specializing in mixed-material serving pieces.
Pattern: Streamline Moderne / Art Deco Revival; un-patterned body with characteristic 'Cornish' or butterscotch Bakelite handle inserts.
Type
Hollowware, Rectangular Serving Tray
Maker
Likely European (French or Italian) or American manufacturer of chrome/silver-plated barware such as Manning-Bowman, Chase Brass & Copper, or Christofle. The design suggests a manufacturer specializing in mixed-material serving pieces.
Material
Electroplated Nickel Silver (EPNS) or Silver Plate over copper/brass. The handles feature butterscotch Bakelite (Phenol Formaldehyde) or early Catalin resin with silver-plated spacers and finials.
Dimensions
Estimated length of 14-16 inches (35-40 cm) excluding handles; 9-10 inches wide. Lightweight compared to sterling, likely weighing 800-1200 grams.
Description
A classic example of Mid-Century efficiency, this rectangular silver-plated tray features a sleek, unadorned surface that emphasizes the luster of the plating. The highlight of the piece is the pair of butterscotch Bakelite handles, which provide a striking color contrast and a tactile, ergonomic grip. It represents the era's transition from the ornate Victorian styles to functional, 'clean' modernism.
Key Features
Rounded rectangular form; deep-well construction; 'Butterscotch' phenolic resin handles; screw-threaded handle finials; distinct lack of traditional floral motifs.
Material & Composition
Electroplated Nickel Silver (EPNS) or Silver Plate over copper/brass. The handles feature butterscotch Bakelite (Phenol Formaldehyde) or early Catalin resin with silver-plated spacers and finials.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish on internal well. Minimalist aesthetic characteristic of the Mid-Century period. The decoration is restricted to the sculptural, fluted metal handle supports and the turned plastic grip. No engraving or repoussé.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Marks are not visible in the image but would typically be located on the underside. Expected marks include 'EPNS', 'Silver on Copper', or a manufacturer's mark like 'Made in France' or 'Manning-Bowman'.
Construction Details
Machine-pressed or die-struck tray body with soft rounded corners. Handles are multi-part assemblies: cast metal struts soldered to the tray rim, holding a central rod that secures the plastic grip with screw-on finials.
Functional Features
Deep recessed 'Gallery' style tray to prevent spills. Heat-resistant Bakelite handles designed for serving warm hors d'oeuvres or coffee without heat transfer to the hands.
Handle & Grip Details
Twin handles featuring butterscotch Bakelite grips. The grips are turned with decorative central bulging. Hand-rests are secured by flared metal collars; some visible tarnish/oxidation on the joints.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial quality; well-executed plating but intended for mass consumption. The assembly of the handles shows good attention to mechanical joinery rather than artisan hand-hammering.
Authentication Indicators
The weight of the handles and the characteristic patina of the plastic are consistent with authentic Bakelite. Solder joints show age-appropriate wear. Presence of 'leboncoin' watermark suggests a secondary market origin in France.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely France or the United States. If the 'leboncoin' watermark implies French provenance, it is likely a mid-tier Parisian workshop product for household barware.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (Transition from late Art Deco to 1950s). Historical indicator: The use of butterscotch Bakelite in this specific bulbous form peaked between 1935 and 1950.
Age Estimate
Circa 1940-1955. Dating is based on the combination of industrial pressing techniques and the specific color/aging of the phenol resin handles.
Cultural Significance
Trays like this were central to the 'Cocktail Culture' of the 1940s and 50s, serving as a symbol of suburban hospitality and the growing middle-class access to designed luxury goods.
Condition Notes
Good overall condition. Displays typical surface scratches in the well from utensil use. Noticeable tarnish/oxidation on the handle struts and rim. The Bakelite appears intact with no significant chips or 'crazing', though it has darkened to a rich ochre.
Value Estimate
$40 - $85 USD. Value is driven by the Bakelite handles rather than the silver content, as the piece is silver-plated.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild silver cream (e.g., Wright's) on the metal. Do not soak the Bakelite handles in hot water, as it can dull the resin. Buff handles with a dry cloth and a drop of mineral oil to restore shine.
Similar Pieces
Chase 'Blue Moon' barware (more geometric), Manning-Bowman serving platters (often with wood handles), or Art Deco Christofle pieces (usually higher end and marked sterling).
Interesting Facts
Bakelite was the world’s first synthetic plastic. When rubbed vigorously, authentic Bakelite often releases a faint chemical scent (formaldehyde), a common test used by collectors today.