Pewter Serving Dish with Ornate Handles Appraisal
Category: Serveware
Description
This is a round serving piece, likely a small serving dish or nut dish, crafted from what appears to be pewter or a pewter-like alloy. The metal has a matte silver-grey finish consistent with pewter, displaying some subtle surface variations and what could be minor darkening or patina in places. The dish has a shallow depth with a slightly raised edge. Attached to opposite sides of the dish are elaborate, cast handles. These handles are ornately decorated with what appears to be a floral or foliate motif, featuring scrolling elements and possibly grape clusters or berries. The handles have an openwork design, adding a decorative flourish. The overall aesthetic suggests a traditional or possibly an Arts and Crafts style influence, though without maker's marks or clearer design cues, pinpointing an exact style period is difficult. The item appears to be in generally good condition, with no obvious signs of major damage like dents or cracks visible in the image, although the surface does show some minor scuffs or inconsistencies typical of age and use. The quality of the casting for the handles appears reasonably detailed, suggesting some level of craftsmanship. The size cannot be precisely determined from the image, but it appears to be a smaller serving piece.
Appraisal Report
Upon examining the images provided, this item is identified as a small serving dish, likely for nuts or candies, produced by Lenox in one of its pewter lines. The design features a round, shallow bowl with two highly ornate, cast handles displaying a detailed floral or grape cluster motif. Based on the style and the Lenox mark, this piece likely dates to the mid-to-late 20th century. The piece appears to be in very good vintage condition, exhibiting a consistent matte finish with only minor surface scuffs consistent with age and gentle use. There are no visible signs of significant damage such as dents, deep scratches, or repairs. While the images provide a good representation, a definitive appraisal and authentication would require a physical examination to confirm the maker's marks are authentic and to assess the metal's integrity and a full condition check for any subtle damage not visible in the photographs. Without a physical inspection, the authenticity of the Lenox mark cannot be guaranteed. Similar Lenox pewter serving items are relatively common on the secondary market. Demand is moderate, driven primarily by collectors of the Lenox brand or those seeking decorative serving pieces with a traditional aesthetic. The value is largely dependent on condition and the specific pattern, though it does not fall into a rare category. The detailed, well-executed handles are its most attractive feature.
Appraisal Value
$20-35