Originality is a refection of individual taste and imagination. 'Personality' might be a better word for it. In its most elegant form, this kind of originality is applied to a few refined details in a conventional framework... Genevieve Antoine Dariaux, 1965

{HISTORY}

Just like Genevieve said above, originality in your decorating and your entertaining comes from that certain unique tweak of a useful, usual item that elevates it from the expected to the interesting. This vintage mid-century serving tray is all about those extra special elements. 

Unusually modern in style with its square shape and big, blousey peonies, it was made in the 1960's by the Rockwell Silver Company in Meriden, CT. In business since 1907, Rockwell knew a lot about the dynamic art of overlaying silver on glass and the attractive features it could produce.  That was the whole concept of the business from day one. Started by the Brothers Rockwell, Lucien and Curtiss,  these two were committed to decorating glassware with the upmost integrity for design and aesthetic. The actual glassmaking business was left up to other companies so that Rockwell Silver could focus solely on creating dynamic designs and patterns that could be applied to blank glass pieces that reflected the beautiful Rockwell brand. They worked with a variety of everyday objects from drinking glasses to vases, serving trays to punch bowl, each delicately detailed with silver flourish.  Many pieces became popular items on wedding gift registries and silver anniversary gift lists throughout the 20th century. 

Older silver overlay pieces were intricately designed, heavier in weight and contained busier patterns like this one from the 1920's, but by the time the 1960's rolled around minimalism was the theme of the design world and bold prints captured everyone's attention. That goes for glassworks too. This one is lightweight, features silver and frosted designs and is slightly concave in shape - a trio of details that makes it unique among both serving trays and platters, just like Genevieve recommends.

{SPECIAL FEATURES}

- Peony pattern

- Square shape

- Authentic time-worn patina 

- Made of glass and sterling silver

{CONDITION}

This tray contains no chips or cracks. The silver overlay has tarnished over time in areas, which gives it a wonderful shabby chic patina that reflects light in a unique way.

{SIZE}

Measures 13.75" (width) x 13.75" (length) x .75"inches (height)

{STYLE IDEA)

Vintage glass and silver trays make especially pretty serving pieces during the holidays as well as special occasion parties like wedding receptions and showers. Pile this one high with holiday cookies, petit fours, tea sandwiches or a home baked cake and coordinate it with bright white or grey dishware for stylish presentation.