Turkish Repoussé Silver-Plated Brass Small Serving Dish
Hollowware (Small Bowl/Candy Dish) · Unknown Turkish manufacturer; likely a regional workshop in Istanbul or Anatolia producing souvenir and household metalware for the export and tourism market.
Pattern: Traditional Ottoman-style foliate and scroll pattern; non-exclusive motifs incorporating scrolling tendrils and repeating scalloped borders.
Type
Hollowware (Small Bowl/Candy Dish)
Maker
Unknown Turkish manufacturer; likely a regional workshop in Istanbul or Anatolia producing souvenir and household metalware for the export and tourism market.
Material
Silver-plated brass or copper. The bright, slightly yellowish-white luster and the 'Made in Turkey' stamp suggest a decorative silver-plate over a base metal (EPBM or EPB).
Dimensions
Estimated diameter of 12-15 cm (4.7-6 inches). Weight is likely light, approximately 150-250 grams, typical of decorative plated hollowware.
Description
This is a decorative Turkish small bowl featuring classic Ottoman-inspired motifs. The piece showcases a central medallion surrounded by a band of chased scrolls, leading to a wide, heavily embossed rim with a scalloped edge. While it mimics the look of high-end hand-wrought silver, it is a functional and beautiful example of modern Turkish souvenir metalware intended for table decoration or serving light snacks.
Key Features
Central 'MADE IN TURKEY' bilingual stamp; repeating floral-scroll repoussé; high-shine silver-plate finish; scalloped 'sunburst' rim design.
Material & Composition
Silver-plated brass or copper. The bright, slightly yellowish-white luster and the 'Made in Turkey' stamp suggest a decorative silver-plate over a base metal (EPBM or EPB).
Finish & Decoration
Bright mirror-polished finish with heavy repoussé (raised metal) and chasing (indented metal). Techniques include stamped arabesque scrolls, stippled backgrounds, and a fluted scalloped rim in the Ottoman Revival style.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The center is stamped with 'MADE IN TURKEY' in English and an Arabic script mark (likely the city or workshop name) along with the number '143' or similar production code. It lacks official silver purity marks (like the Tughra or 800/925 stamps).
Construction Details
Machine-pressed or die-stamped from a flat sheet of base metal, then electroplated. This is not hand-raised, as evidenced by the high symmetry and sharpness of the repetitive mechanical patterns.
Functional Features
Scalloped rim for easy gripping; deep central well for holding small items like dates, nuts, or traditional Turkish delight (lokum).
Handle & Grip Details
Handleless design; the wide, flared scalloped rim serves as the functional grip for the vessel.
Craftsmanship Details
Commercial grade craftsmanship. The stampings are well-aligned but lack the depth and unique irregularities of hand-chased silver. The silver-plating is applied evenly via electrodeposition.
Authentication Indicators
The 'Made in Turkey' stamp is the primary identifier. The lack of a '925' or '800' mark, combined with the visual 'yellow' tint often seen in thin silver plating, confirms this is not solid silver.
Origin & Manufacturing
Turkey; likely mass-produced in a workshop utilizing modern electroplating and hydraulic presses to mimic historic hand-worked designs.
Era & Period
Modern Era / Late 20th Century (c. 1970 - Present). The use of English 'Made in Turkey' is a modern indicator for international trade.
Age Estimate
Circa 1980-2010. The condition of the plating and the style of the English stamp indicate a relatively contemporary production date.
Cultural Significance
Represents the persistence of Ottoman aesthetic traditions in modern Turkish craft. These dishes are integral to the culture of hospitality, used specifically for serving guests sweets or dried fruits.
Condition Notes
Excellent condition. The plating appears intact with no visible 'bleeding' of base metal. High luster suggests infrequent use and careful storage. No significant dents or structural deformations.
Value Estimate
$15 - $35 USD. Value is based on decorative appeal rather than precious metal content.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid abrasive silver polishes which can strip the thin plating. Clean with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Store in a dry place to prevent 'pitting' of the base metal.
Similar Pieces
Authentic 19th-century Ottoman silver Sahans (which would have Tughra marks and heavier weight) or modern solid silver .800 tea saucers from the same region.
Interesting Facts
Items like this are often found in the Grand Bazaar of Istanbul. While not antique, they are part of a long tradition of Turkish metalwork that uses the 'Kardaki' style of repoussé to create high-relief patterns.