Copperware Appraisal

Tinned Copper Wall Platter Depicting Saint George and the Dragon

This is a large, circular decorative wall platter featuring a central repoussé scene of Saint George on horseback slaying the dragon. The item is constructed from copper that has been selectively tinned to create a two-tone aesthetic. The central medallion is heavily tinned, giving it a cool, silvery-grey appearance that contrasts sharply against the warm, reddish-orange hue of the exposed copper border. The relief work in the center shows the knight in traditional armor with a flowing cape, mounted on a rearing horse, and brandishing a spear toward a fallen dragon at the base. This central scene is surrounded by multiple decorative registers: first, a fine geometric or 'sawtooth' patterned band; next, a wide, smooth copper band; and finally, an outer perimeter rim decorated with chased and engraved floral and foliate vine motifs on a darkened ground. The outer edge is finished with a scalloped or crimped detail. Regarding condition, the piece shows significant patina consistent with mid-20th-century age, including localized oxidation, darkening of the copper, and minor surface scratches. The tinning shows some uneven wear, particularly on high-relief points. This style of metalwork is characteristic of Greek, Armenian, or Persian craft traditions, often created for the souvenir or folk art market between 1940 and 1970. The level of detail in the engraving suggests a high degree of hand-craftsmanship rather than modern mechanical stamping.