Footed Waiter Tray Appraisal

Old English Reproduction Silverplate on Copper Footed Waiter Tray

This is a large, rectangular-shaped silver-plated waiter tray featuring a recessed flat surface with intricate chased scrolling foliate and floral patterns throughout the center. The tray is constructed with a heavily ornate, scalloped grape-and-leaf motif rim (sometimes referred to as a Chippendale or Victorian style border) and two matching cast handles with floral embellishments for easy transport. Per the user-provided context, the reverse is stamped with '945 Old English Reproductions E. P. ON COPPER,' which indicates the piece is 'electroplated on copper.' This manufacturing technique was common in the mid-20th century to emulate the weight and look of solid sterling silver. The copper base provides a substantial weight to the piece, while the silver plating offers a bright, reflective finish. Regarding condition, there is visible tarnishing and oxidation, particularly in the deep crevices of the decorative rim and handles. Notable surface scratches and 'bleeding' (where the underlying copper base begins to show through the silver plating) are evident on the flat surface due to age and polishing over time. The craftsmanship is typical of high-quality reproduction hollowware from the 1940s-1960s, designed to evoke the elegance of earlier 18th-century English silver designs.