A highly unusual papier mache decanter tray, moulded into an elaborate shape featuring two moulded decanter coasters and turned over handles, the whole shaped out to a point with central area for glasses. The papier mache as is ususal for the period is painted black but here is highly decorated with gilding and painting in greys and creams, the whole is done in the gothic styling of the period. The back of the tray is fully marked with a maker mark; Jennens and Betteridge makers to the Queen, and with a retaillers mark for R Redgrave which has the patent registration for the tray design of 1847. In 1816 Jennens and Betteridge of Birmingham acquired workshops form Henry Clay. Producing and perfecting skills in the craft of papier-mâché the firm established a renowned reputation, culminating in the exhibition of elaborate furniture and wares during the 1851 Crystal Palace Great Exhibition. The business ceased to operate in 1864. The period of design of the tray and the quality of the dec...