Vintage Silver-Plated Over Copper Footed Oval Serving Tureen
Serving Dish/Tureen (Holloware) · None; item is silver-plated. The visible "gold" color is the exposed copper or brass substrate commonly known as "bleeding".
Purity: Non-gold (0%); silver-plated base metal with visible brass/copper bleed through
Type
Serving Dish/Tureen (Holloware)
Purity
Non-gold (0%); silver-plated base metal with visible brass/copper bleed through
Gold Type
None; item is silver-plated. The visible "gold" color is the exposed copper or brass substrate commonly known as "bleeding".
Weight
1.5 to 2.5 kg (3.3 to 5.5 lbs) based on size and base metal construction
Description
An elegant, oval-shaped footed serving tureen featuring a detachable lid and handle. The item displays classic Victorian-style ornamentation with gadroon bordering and acanthus leaf accents. Significant wear to the silver plating has revealed the warm copper/brass base metal underneath, giving it a two-tone appearance often desired by collectors of 'shabby chic' antiques.
Key Features
Detachable ornate handle; two-piece construction (base and lid); repousse border work; footed base for heat protection on tabletops
Color & Finish
High-polish silver toning with heavy oxidation/patina; yellow-toned "bleeding" where plating has worn off; Gadroon and acanthus leaf border motifs
Hallmarks & Stamps
Expected marks on base (not visible in image) likely including "Silver on Copper", "EPNS", or a maker's mark (e.g., Sheffield, Gorham, or International Silver)
Dimensions Estimate
12-14 inches (Length) x 9-10 inches (Width) x 5-6 inches (Total Height with lid)
Gemstones & Inlays
None; features repoussé and chased metalwork including scroll and foliate designs
Clasp & Closure
Detachable ornate acanthus leaf handle with screw-in or bayonet-style locking mechanism for the lid
Chain & Links
Not applicable; features a Gadroon (rope-style) cast border edge on the platter and lid
Craftsmanship Details
Cast metal handle and feet; stamped metal body; electroplated finish; manual chasing on the border motifs.
Authentication Indicators
The 'gold' color is localized to high-friction areas, confirming it is exposed base metal rather than solid gold; heavy tarnish is consistent with silver/copper alloys.
Origin & Maker
Likely English or American; common manufacturers include Sheffield or Rogers Bros
Era & Period
Victorian Era Style (Late 19th to early 20th Century Revival)
Age Estimate
Circa 1890-1940 (based on the hardware style and plating wear patterns)
Cultural Significance
Represents the formal dining traditions of the late 19th century middle and upper classes, designed to emulate solid sterling silver at a lower price point.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good; significant silver loss (plating wear), heavy surface scratches, and dark oxidation/tarnish. The handle appears intact but detached in one photo.
Value Estimate
Decorative/Resale Value: $40 - $120; Melt Value: Minimal (primarily copper market price).
Care & Maintenance
Clean with dedicated silver polish; avoid abrasive pads which will further strip the remaining silver plating; store in a felt-lined chest to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Items
Solid Sterling Silver Tureens (much heavier/valuable); Pewter serving dishes (greyer tone); 24K Gold-dipped vermeil serving ware (much rarer and more uniform in color).
Interesting Facts
Items like this were often called 'Sheffield Plate' or 'Electroplated Nickel Silver'. The detachable handle allowed the lid to be inverted and used as a second serving dish.