M Lees and Sons has dated this piece to the Regency era.
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The raised edge with thin gilded bands . The reverse bearing a clear manufacturers stamp of “Clay , King St, Covt Garden “.
The size and the raised edge of this tray indicate it was probably made to be used by a footman in order to receive calling or visiting cards as was the custom in Georgian and Regency society.

In excellent original condition with only minor historic aged crazing to the surface .
Clay and Company (1770-1860) of Covent Garden ,London , were esteemed makers of a patented form of durable papier-mâché products , known as ‘ heat-resisting paper ware’ . The material was patented by Henry Clay in 1772 . Begun in Birmingham, the company transferred its business to London in around 1785 . The company completed commissions for the Royal family , the nobility and gentry .
H 10”
W 10”
D 2”
England c. 1810
M Lees and Sons has dated this piece to the Regency era.
M.lees & sons , 'tower house' , severn st., worcester wr12nb tel . 07860826218
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