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At Dart Silver Ltd we always have a wide selection of silver salvers and trays in stock.
Sterling silver salvers & trays with examples from England, Scotland, Continental Europe and further afield. Dating from the Georgian, Victorian, Edwardian period as well as the 20th century.
Silver salvers and trays have a long history that stretches back to ancient times. As early as the Roman Empire, wealthy individuals used silver trays to present food and drink during feasts and ceremonies. These early trays were often simple in design but served as symbols of wealth and status.
During the 16th and 17th centuries, European silversmiths began crafting more elaborate silver salvers and trays. The term “salver” specifically referred to a flat, usually circular tray, often with a raised edge or gallery. Silversmiths in England, France, and Italy refined their techniques, creating ornate designs that featured intricate engravings, repoussé work, and decorative motifs like coats of arms, floral patterns, and mythological scenes.
In England, the production of silver salvers became particularly prominent during the Restoration period (1660-1685). English silversmiths, inspired by classical forms and the emerging Baroque style, crafted salvers that were not only functional but also served as decorative items displayed in the homes of the nobility and wealthy merchants. They often used salvers to present letters, calling cards, or small gifts, adding an air of sophistication to social interactions.
The 18th century saw the continued evolution of silver salvers and trays, especially during the Georgian period. English silversmiths like Paul de Lamerie and Hester Bateman created salvers with elegant, neoclassical designs. These pieces were often circular or oval and featured detailed engravings, with some incorporating family crests or inscriptions commemorating special events.
By the 19th century, the Industrial Revolution had transformed the production of silverware. Silversmiths began using new techniques like electroplating, which allowed for the mass production of silver-plated trays and salvers. This made silver trays more affordable and accessible to the middle class, who eagerly adopted them for use in their homes. During this period, styles ranged from the ornate Victorian designs, with their rich embellishments, to the more streamlined and geometric forms of the Art Deco movement in the early 20th century.
Throughout the 20th century, salvers and trays continued to be used in both formal and decorative settings. While their everyday use declined with the advent of modern materials and casual dining practices, they remained popular for special occasions, such as weddings, banquets, and official ceremonies. Many families continued to pass down heirloom silver trays, valuing them as symbols of heritage and tradition.
Today, silver salvers and trays are appreciated for their historical significance and craftsmanship. Antique pieces are highly sought after by collectors, and contemporary silversmiths continue to produce them, often blending classic designs with modern aesthetics. Whether used for serving or as decorative objects, silver salvers and trays remain enduring symbols of elegance and refinement.
Situated within the Central belt of Scotland (UK), we are a small, family run business. Indeed, we traded in silver for many years before forming Dart Silver Ltd in 2006.
