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HUGE Silver Plate Castillo Taxco Mexico Style Hammered Serving Tray w/ Malachite

$ 182.16

Availability: 100 in stock
  • Country/Region of Manufacture: Mexico
  • Restocking Fee: No
  • Item must be returned within: 14 Days
  • Condition: Wear to silver-plate. Please see pictures and read below for details.
  • All returns accepted: Returns Accepted
  • Refund will be given as: Money Back
  • Return shipping will be paid by: Buyer

    Description

    I am selling a large and heavy silver-plated hammered copper serving tray nicely trimmed in malachite.   Unsigned, though likely from Taxco or Mexico City, this huge tray measures 21 1/2" in length and 16" in width.  This substantial tray looks great in a semi-formal to formal festive table setting.  Having a flat rim trimmed in a raised 1/2" border of Malachite, the sunken center of the tray provides a usable flat surface of about 17" by 11 1/2".   The total thickness of the edge of this tray measures 0.17" thick (close to 3/16")   This is a rarely seen size for a serving tray in this Mexican metal-working tradition.  Though well used, there is plenty of life left in this huge and useful tray.
    Detailed condition follows below.  This tray, if perfect, would list for 00 or more.   I've priced it to reflect the worn but still very serviceable and useful condition.
    I have provided pictures of the tray in use, one holding a large copper cider set and another picture with silver-plate Los Castillo cups and decorated water pitcher, which serve to show the usefulness of this tray.  Other uses would include this being used as a great serving tray  for a huge turkey or ham (foil or garnish would cover the silver loss), or use it as a pickle/relish/snack/desert serving tray for those festive occasions.
    NOTE - the BLUE CIRCLES indicate areas of GOOD silver.  They are there to point out reflections that might otherwise be mistaken for wear.
    Please examine the pictures closely to establish condition.   First of all, the attractive Malachite edge trim appears to be 100% intact, undamaged and original.  Secondly, the flat rim of the tray immediately inside the Malachite edge (the level area that shows the most when the tray is in use) is almost 100% original.   Most of the wear and silver loss is to the sunken center of the tray, the area of highest use, and also at the outer rim of the center.  I have tried to accurately show the extent of silver loss through my photographs.  Being hard to photograph, I've outlined in the pictures areas of blue that are reflections to the silver that do not indicate loss of silver (It is hard to photograph silver without reflections!).   The pictures taken outdoors, if studied closely, are pretty representative of the condition.   The wear is easily seen in the pictures as copper color amidst the silver.  There is silver loss and surface wear to both top and bottom of the tray.  I would call the condition good vintage, with silver loss and scratching commensurate with use and age of the piece.
    Overall, the tray is very serviceable and useful for display or serving.  It is an excellent example of the traditional design of the rustic folk art of Mexico.   If you are fortunate enough to own several cups, goblets, pitchers or coffee/tea sets but don't have a large tray for serving, this tray might be for you.
    NOTE: Sorry, I only ship within the USA and Canada.  I am happy to discuss exceptions on a case-by-case basis if you are interested in this item.
    I've been specializing in quality art and antiques for the past 40 years.  I am proud to offer some of the nicer examples of antiques in their diverse categories.  My prices are well researched and very competitive, but I am happy to consider all offers.  I list to sell.
    Thank you for your interest and for looking at my auctions.   All of my auctions are guaranteed!