Repousse Design Trays Appraisal

Mid-20th Century Hand-Wrought Hammered Aluminum Trays with Floral and Fruit Repoussé Design

This is a circular serving tray or platter crafted from hand-hammered aluminum, a style that gained significant popularity in the mid-20th century, particularly between the 1930s and 1950s. The piece features a central circular medallion intricately decorated in high-relief repoussé featuring a lush cornucopia of fruits and flowers, including roses, grapes, and pears. Surrounding this central Well is a wide rim characterized by a undulating, hammered texture that creates a rhythmic, wave-like reflective surface. The rim is further accented with four equidistant floral cartouches that echo the central motif. The outermost edge is finished with a fine pie-crust or crimped scalloped border. Physically, the tray exhibits a bright silver-toned finish characteristic of polished aluminum. Condition-wise, the item shows moderate signs of age and utility; there are visible surface scratches, small areas of dark oxidation/pitting (particularly near the top right edge), and a general dulling of the finish in the recessed areas of the design. This type of metalwork was often produced by companies like Rodney Kent, Continental Silver Co., or Wendell August Forge. The craftsmanship reflects a mass-market approach to the Arts and Crafts aesthetic, offering a durable and decorative serving option for post-war households.