Material: Sterling Silver
Maker: Reed & Barton
Hallmark: Bird, R, Lion, Sterling,
935, Date Mark
Size: Low Tray Diameter; 9 & 7/8 in Hgt;1 & 3/4 in, Tall Tray Diameter; 6 & 1/4
Height; 6 & 5/8 inches
Quantity: 1 Set = 2 pieces
This is a rare sterling silver figural centerpiece, manufactured by Reed and Barton,
c. 1933. It is comprised of two identically hallmarked pieces; a large, low, footed
tray and a tall figural tray ~ bowl.
The large, low footed pedestal tray, features an aesthetic Lotus flower design. The
tall centerpiece tazza features a lovely,aesthetic, incredibly detailed and realistically
depicted mermaid, supporting a similar, smaller lotus flower tray.
As referenced above, both pieces are identically hallmarked as to maker, sterling,
design number and date marked for 1933.
These are heavy, well made substantial sterling pieces. The large tray weighs 13.95
troy ounces and the mermaid tray weighs 10.71 troy. Combined weight of both pieces
is a considerable 24.66 troy ounces.
These items are in extremely nice estate condition, with only two very tiny, light
marks to larger tray and none to the taller mermaid tray. No significant dings,
dents or damage and no visible repairs.
Large tray has never been monogrammed. The taller piece is lightly monogrammed on
the foot/base; S.
In our many years in the antique business we have only encountered
this mermaid tray once before, and it was missing the large, matching under tray.
It is rather amazing that these two pieces have stayed matched together for more
than 75 years!
As a side note; in 1916 Reed & Barton was commissioned by the citizens of Arizona
to manufacture a set of sterling for the battleship U.S.S. Arizona. This is one
of the most incredible collections and thankfully did not go down with the ship when
it was destroyed during World War II, as just previous to deployment all sterling
pieces had been placed in storage. We mention this collection because some of the
pieces, including a magnificent punch bowl, were adorned with mermaids that are similar
(though more elaborate) to the one on this tray and we wonder if perhaps this mermaid
design is related in some way. A quick Internet search will provide further information
& pics.
