International Silver Co. Silver-Plated Round Waiter Tray with Gadroon Border and Rococo Chasing
Hollowware (Service Tray/Waiter) · International Silver Co. (IS), Meriden, Connecticut. Formed in 1898 from a consortium of historic New England silversmiths like Rogers Bros and Wilcox.
Pattern: Unknown pattern name; features a classic Gadroon-edge border and a machine-chased floor with Rococo revival scrolls and diaper-work hatching.
Type
Hollowware (Service Tray/Waiter)
Maker
International Silver Co. (IS), Meriden, Connecticut. Formed in 1898 from a consortium of historic New England silversmiths like Rogers Bros and Wilcox.
Material
Silver plate over base metal (likely copper or nickel silver). Known as EP (Electroplate) or EPNS. It is not solid sterling silver.
Dimensions
Approximately 12 to 14 inches in diameter. Weight is typical of heavy gauge plated base metal, likely 800 - 1,200 grams.
Description
This round silver-plated tray represents the classic American 'Waiter' tray style often used for formal entertaining. It features a robust gadroon rim that provides both decorative flair and structural strength. The floor of the tray is intricately decorated with a scrolling floral and foliate design, leaving a circular void in the center intended for a family crest or monogram. Its heavy weight and bright silver finish make it an elegant accessory for a sideboard or buffet.
Key Features
Reinforced gadroon (rope) edge; intricate 'diaper-work' (cross-hatching) in the chased field; deep-well design; lack of handles commonly associated with larger butlers' trays.
Material & Composition
Silver plate over base metal (likely copper or nickel silver). Known as EP (Electroplate) or EPNS. It is not solid sterling silver.
Finish & Decoration
Mirror-polished floor with machine-chased/engraved floral and leaf motifs; decorative Gadroon (twisted rope) applied border; central blank circle for a possible monogram.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Likely marked on the reverse with 'International Silver Co.' logo, 'EP' or 'EPNS' (electroplated nickel silver), and a pattern number. No lion passant or '925' marks.
Construction Details
Machine-stamped tray body with an applied die-formed gadroon rim; decorative floor pattern is achieved via machine-guided chasing or engraving.
Functional Features
Raised rim to prevent spills; flat floor designed for stable transport of tea sets, coffee carafes, or cocktails; durable plating for frequent household use.
Handle & Grip Details
No handles (waiter style). The grip is managed by the raised, reinforced gadroon rim which provides structural rigidity and a textured surface for fingers.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial production. The symmetry of the rim and the depth of the chasing indicate a premium plated line from the International Silver catalog.
Authentication Indicators
Lack of 'Sterling' mark confirms it is plated. The 'International Silver' name is synonymous with high-quality mid-market plated ware rather than hand-wrought silver.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States (likely Meriden, CT). Mass-produced using industrial electroplating techniques pioneered by the International Silver consortium.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (c. 1940-1970). Stylistic cues are based on the Rococo Revival and Traditionalist motifs popular in American post-war households.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1960. The crispness of the border and the style of the machine chasing are typical of mid-century mass-market luxury goods.
Cultural Significance
Trays like this were staples of the 'Mid-Century Modern' formal dining room, symbolizing middle-class aspirations toward the grand service traditions of the Victorian era.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good. Visible surface scratches (knife marks) in the center indicate use. Possible light 'bleeding' of base metal on high points of the gadroon rim. Heavy tarnish in crevices.
Value Estimate
$30 - $75 USD. Value is driven by utility and decorative appeal rather than metal content, as the silver weight is negligible.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a non-abrasive silver cream like Wright's. Avoid the dishwasher, as heat and salts will strip the silver plating. Store in a tarnish-proof flannel bag.
Similar Pieces
Gorham silver-plated trays (often higher grade plate), Reed & Barton 'Winthrop' or 'King Francis' plated trays, and Oneida 'Silver Artistry' patterns.
Interesting Facts
International Silver Co. was once the world largest manufacturer of silverware and famously provided silver for oceanic liners and luxury hotels throughout the 20th century.