How were table card holders used?

Hosts placed menu holders and place card holders along dining tables during formal dinners to inform guests of the courses and seating arrangements. They sat among tableware accessories to complement the decorative theme of the meal.

What periods do these pieces date from?

The available selection spans from the nineteenth century through the Edwardian era, George V and George VI periods, into the mid twentieth century. Edwardian and early twentieth century items form the majority of surviving examples.

How are silver hallmarks read?

Hallmarks consist of stamped symbols indicating the assay office, the maker's mark and the date letter representing the year of testing. These tiny marks verify the purity of the sterling silver used in the construction.

Are these pieces found in sets?

Makers produced both individual pieces and matched sets, including pairs, sets of four, or larger groupings for banqueting. Complete sets featuring figural subjects like animals or military motifs remain particularly sought after.