An Exceptional Edwardian Art Nouveau Silver-Gilt & EPNS Gallery Tray

A magnificent and highly stylised Edwardian Art Nouveau silver plated oval gallery tray, featuring a rare and luxurious silver-gilt central reserve. Crafted between 1895 and 1910 by the Sheffield silversmiths Richard Richardson, this grand piece exemplifies the fluid, nature-inspired elegance of the Art Nouveau movement.

Design & Artistry

The flat bed of the tray features an intricately etched, unmonogrammed central field depicting flowing, organic Art Nouveau floral blooms with sweeping, sinuous vines and stylized swirling stems. The central decorative reserve is elevated by a beautiful, bright silver-gilt wash.

The tray is framed by a remarkably crisp, openwork pierced gallery rim featuring a continuous motif of interwoven Art Nouveau ribbons. The perimeter is flanked by integrated twin handles that echo the organic curves of the main body, ensuring both structural integrity and a balanced, elegant silhouette.

Condition & Maker's Marks

The underside is fully and sharply struck with the official registered hallmarks for Richard Richardson:

Condition Report: Excellent antique condition. The silver plating remains remarkably bright and completely intact with no bleeding to the base nickel silver. The central face is blank, free of any historic family monograms or inscriptions. The silver-gilt wash is beautifully preserved, exhibiting only minor, honest wear to the centre revealing the bright silver plating beneath. An exceptionally clean, heavy, and usable gallery piece.