What is an epns tray?

An epns tray is a serving tray made from nickel silver and finished with an electroplated silver coating. These items were produced extensively by British silversmiths during the Victorian, Edwardian and Art Deco eras. They were designed for serving tea, coffee or cocktails, combining the bright appearance of solid silver with a sturdier and more affordable base metal construction.

How do I clean an antique epns tray?

Cleaning requires a soft cloth and a gentle silver polish specifically formulated for plated items. Avoid harsh abrasive cleaners that can wear away the thin silver layer over time. Wash the tray in warm soapy water and dry it thoroughly after polishing to maintain the lustre of the metal without damaging the engraved details or applied borders.

How do I tell Victorian from Art Deco trays?

Victorian and Edwardian trays tend to feature ornate floral engraving, pieced galleries and scrolling handles. Their design is ornamental and follows classical or revivalist decorative motifs. Art Deco trays, dating from the 1920s and 1930s, showcase geometric shapes like diamonds and hexagons, streamlined shell borders, and a focus on clean architectural lines suited for cocktail service.

Were these trays used for food?

Many of these pieces were built for afternoon tea service, carrying teapots, sugar bowls and cream jugs. Others functioned specifically as cocktail or drinks trays for glassware and decanters. Specialised forms like asparagus dishes and butter dishes with glass liners were created to hold specific foodstuffs during formal dining.