What is the difference between a salver and a tray?

Salvers generally refer to flat, footed plates traditionally used for serving glasses or presenting calling cards. Trays tend to be larger, often rectangular or oval, designed for carrying tea services or heavy dishes. Footed versions of both elevate the metal surface off polished tabletops, protecting fine wood from heat and moisture.

How do I clean an antique silver plated tray?

Use a gentle, non-abrasive silver polish applied with a soft cloth to remove tarnish without harming the underlying plating. Avoid harsh chemical dips that strip away the remaining finish, especially on older Old Sheffield plate where the copper base might expose itself. Store the item in a dry environment and handle it with clean hands to minimise future tarnishing and preserve the engraved surface details.

What are silver tables used for?

Silver tables served as drawing room furniture designed to display collections of small silver items or to support afternoon tea services. Their raised edges prevented valuable pieces from sliding off during use. Today they function well as decorative side tables or occasional stands in living spaces.

How can I tell the age of a footed silver tray?

Examine the hallmarks stamped into the metal for sterling pieces, or look for maker marks and plating stamps on silver-plated items. Stylistic clues such as Rococo revival scrolls, Georgian pierced galleries, or Edwardian engraved borders also point toward specific decades. The weight, construction of the feet, and manufacturing technique provide further evidence of the period.