Description
***Original Early Victorian, NOT a revival or later remake. This is a lovely antique engraved, signed and dated 1853 early Victorian Sheffield Heavy Silver Plate footed serving tray that was used as a presentation gift heirloom tray from father to daughter in 1902. **Condition is much better than photos; all silver intact; not worn down. It has early hallmarks, as you see in the photos. These particular early Sheffield hallmarks are attributed to Maxfield Boardman & Sons who was known for high quality silverplating in the 1850s in the city of Sheffield. The top of the tray is beautifully hand chased with large fancy openwork scrolls, long tailed long beaked elegant birds, fanciful leaves and lovely flowers. It also has a deeply scalloped rippling border with large pierced open work throughout. Additionally the tray sits atop unusual feet that are wide/broad and have a raised nut fruit pattern surrounded by raised balls within a thick scroll perimeter. Size of tray top is 10 1/4″ across east to west, edge to edge. Height is 1 1/2″ from the lower curve of the scallop down to the bottom of foot. Weight is 1.2 pounds or 16.4 troy ounces. Overall condition is excellent antique. All silver intact. Some light faint surface age scratches that are not obvious and have no silver wear, 2 tiny 2-3mm spots at the corner of 2 piercings that are open, very tiny and very minor. A jeweler could add a dab of solder but not necessary at all, does not detract. Three tiny solder joints at the open work edge likely from the original hand making when the border was applied or in preparation for the 1902 presentation gift. No dents or dings or gauges, tears or deep scratches etc… Never altered or modified. All original. From original owner’s family estate many decades ago where it was kept in very gently used condition. This is a gorgeous early dated presentation piece for your antique estate silver collection. Looks lovely on any formal buffet, dining or serving table.
