Don Sheil Anodized Aluminium Double Dish Tray
Hollowware - Tray and Dish · Don Sheil Australia, renowned for innovative textured metal homewares and tableware established in the late 20th century
Pattern: Textured Anodized Studio Ware, mid-to-late 20th century production
Type
Hollowware - Tray and Dish
Maker
Don Sheil Australia, renowned for innovative textured metal homewares and tableware established in the late 20th century
Material
Anodized aluminum with a specialized surface treatment mimicking precious metals and creating durable finishes
Dimensions
Approximate medium serving tray dimensions, roughly 20-25 cm in length, lightweight aluminum construction
Description
An attractive and highly distinctive Don Sheil dual-compartment serving tray featuring the maker's signature cross-hatched textured finish. The piece showcases a striking contrast between matte linear brushing and polished raised rectangular wells, reflecting quintessential late 20th-century Australian design innovation in metalware.
Key Features
Distinctive cross-hatched brushed texture, dual compartment recessed form, and original black oval Don Sheil studio branding sticker
Material & Composition
Anodized aluminum with a specialized surface treatment mimicking precious metals and creating durable finishes
Finish & Decoration
Textured cross-hatched brushed finish with high-polish raised compartments and distinctive signature oval sticker label
Hallmarks & Stamps
Black oval foil maker's mark sticker reading Don Sheil (TM) MADE IN AUSTRALIA
Construction Details
Formed sheet metal, likely pressed or stamped with a specialized surface texturing technique and anodized protective layer
Functional Features
Dual partitioned depressed compartments suitable for serving snacks, nuts, or small condiments
Handle & Grip Details
Integral rim handles forming a sleek, cohesive geometric profile without separate attached grips
Craftsmanship Details
Precision-formed sheet aluminum exhibiting specialized mechanical surface texturing and even protective anodization
Authentication Indicators
Verified by the authentic oval black and silver foil Don Sheil Australia manufacturer's sticker affixed to the central well surface
Origin & Manufacturing
Melbourne, Australia, produced by Don Sheil's studio specializing in Australian craft design
Era & Period
Late 20th Century Modern / Retro Design Era (c. 1970s-1990s)
Age Estimate
Circa 1980s to 1990s based on the style of the foil maker's label and modern anodized techniques
Cultural Significance
Represents the flourishing of Australian modernist craft design and the creative adaptation of alternative metals like aluminum for contemporary domestic dining
Condition Notes
Good overall condition with minor surface scratches consistent with light use and handling, retaining the original foil label and clear anodized coating
Value Estimate
Estimated secondary market value range of $15 to $45 USD depending on condition, presence of original sticker, and current collector demand
Care & Maintenance
Wash gently by hand with mild dish soap and a soft cloth; avoid abrasive scouring pads, harsh chemical cleaners, and dishwasher use to preserve the anodized finish and label
Similar Pieces
Other Don Sheil platters, bowls, and coasters featuring similar brushed and textured anodized aluminum finishes
Interesting Facts
Don Sheil items became iconic Australian souvenirs and wedding gifts during the late 20th century, celebrated for pioneering unique chemical texturing and anodizing processes on aluminum