Crumb Catcher Appraisal

Edwardian Era Silver-Plated Crumb Tray and Scraper Set

This is a two-piece silent butler or table crumber set consisting of a wide dustpan-style tray and a matching curved scraper. Both pieces are likely constructed from silver-plated brass or copper, exhibiting a heavy, dark patina and significant oxidation. The tray features an ornate, arched back-plate decorated with high-relief Art Nouveau floral motifs, specifically scrolling leaves and organic forms, surrounding a central unmonogrammed cartouche. The scraper is characterized by a curved blade and a highly decorative handle with similar leaf-and-vine repoussé work. The craftsmanship indicates a late-19th to early-20th-century origins, typical of the Edwardian or Art Nouveau style periods. Regarding condition, the set shows extensive surface wear, with the silver plating worn thin in several areas, exposing the warmer base metal underneath (bleeding). There is significant tarnish and spotting across both items, particularly on the flat surface of the tray and the blade of the scraper. Despite the surface degradation, the structural integrity remains sound, with no visible cracks or major dents. There are no clearly visible maker's marks from this angle, but such sets were common household items produced by major silver manufacturers for formal dining etiquette. The quality is consistent with mass-produced decorative tablewares from the Victorian/Edwardian transition.