Extremely hard-to-find (if not to say rare) serving tray as produced by The Pairpoint Corporation during the Aesthetic Movement of mid-1880's. Pairpoint was organized as a business in New Bedford, Massachusetts in 1880 and was among the first manufacturers in this country to recognize silver as an art medium. This tray is truly a work of art. Butler's trays, also known as waiters, were produced primarily for carrying large tea services. The particular tray was designed with Japonesque details which were all the rage during the 1880's and the distinct motifs include bamboo stalks and leaves, a spider dropping from its web, a butterfly and dragonfly, a snail and assorted exotic blossoms. The outer 1-1/2" border of the tray is rounded and is surfaced with applied panels of leaves and blossoms. The two ornate handles are flanked by oriental fans. This tray is extremely heavy, and while I have not weighed it, I would guess it to be about 10 pounds. The tray's original use was probably for transporting a large tea and coffee service from kitchen to drawing room, but fully loaded would almost require a fork lift! It could be used for most any serving purpose and today it will certainly make an impressive display. The condition is excellent and requires no restoration or replating. Dimensions As Follows: Overall Width  29-1/2" (Handle to Handle); Tray Length  23-5/8" (Including 1-1/2" Border); Tray Width  17-3/4" (Including 1-1/2" Border); Tray Height  1-1/4" (To Top of Border), 2-3/4" (To Top of Curved Handles). This is an important piece for a serious collector or dealer, and miserly bargain hunters expecting to land it for 35 bucks will be disappointed. Please don't ask for the reserve amount as I will not provide it.....just bid high and bid often!

PLEASE NOTE: I have made every effort to describe this item as accurately and honestly as possible. This item is over 100 years old and may possess certain characteristics that come with being that age. If you have questions regarding the the item please contact me in advance of bidding because I do not ship items out on approval, nor do I accept returns. I will not be responsible for a buyer's dissatisfaction or disappointment once the item is received. ALL SALES FINAL! If what you may be expecting is something that looks like brand new department store merchandise then this piece is probably not the best choice for you. I am a collector, not a dealer, and do not sell merchandise for a living. I am merely attempting to thin down an over-ambitious collection acquired over many years. The successful bidder must contact me within 3 calendar days of the auction closing to provide payment and shipping information; payment must be received within 7 calendar days. If the buyer fails to comply with my payment requirements I reserve the right to relist and sell the item to another party without further notice. I will leave negative feedback for deadbeat buyers.