How were dish covers used?

These covers sat over meat joints, game or vegetables on the dining table to keep food warm between the kitchen and the dining room. Servants lifted the dome at the table just before serving the meal to the assembled guests.

What is Old Sheffield plate?

Old Sheffield plate is an early fusing method where a thin layer of silver is bonded to a thick copper base under heat. Pieces made this way often show a subtle hint of copper along high points or cut edges where the silver layer has thinned.

How do I clean my cover?

Clean silver and silver-plated pieces gently using a dedicated silver cloth or mild cream designed for plated items. Avoid harsh abrasive pastes that wear away the thin silver layer over the underlying copper or nickel base.

Are these pieces marked with dates?

Sterling silver items usually carry full hallmarks indicating the assay office, year and maker. Plated items generally feature maker stamps rather than official date letters, requiring stylistic dating from the period.