Fabulously ornate repousse footed Victorian silverplate card receiver holder tray featuring three rows of darling cupids (sometimes called putti) with hearts and scrolls and ebonized turned handles with a ruffled edge and four ornate feet. The cupid to the left of the heart is holding onto a swan, the other cupid is reaching for lush fruit. Never monogrammed, but easily could be!
Putti are those plump little naked boys with wings that one often sees in Renaissance, Mannerist, Baroque and Rococo art. Typically, a putto (in the singular form) depicts an angel or cherub in a religious scene, but he may also come in the form of Cupid. In either case, a putto's presence symbolizes love, whether Divine or of a more earthly nature. Incidentally, you never run across ugly putti in art; they're so cute you could just pinch them. http://arthistory.about.com/cs/glossaries/g/p_putti.htm
This card receiver most likely dates from the late 19th century. During the Victorian era, calling card receivers were quite fashionable. In typical Victorian fashion, silver card receivers were crafted in elaborate and naturalistic forms such as this receiver. Today, this could be used as an elegant silver business card holder or an ornate silver dresser tray!
There is no silverplate wear noted, although the edges show minor thinning of the silver plate - no bare metal. No dents, bumps or other damage to note. The silverplate is still quite thick on 99% of the tray, and the handles and feet are in excellent condition.
This ornate repousse calling card tray measures 9.5" (12.75" between the handles) x 7", stands 1" at rim, 1.675" at the handles and weighs 1 pound, 1.4 ounces and is touchmarked on the base with E.P.N.S.
A1472 - Victorian Silverplate Footed Repousse Card Holder Tray Cupids / Putti, Hearts, Scrolls, Ebonized Handles E.P.N.S.
$73.00
