Decorative tray - Silver 800 - Italy - Napoleon III

Antique Ebonized Oval Tray with 800 Silver Coat of Arms - 19th Century

An elegant and charming oval serving tray from the second half of the 19th century (19th century, Eclectic/Napoleon III era), enriched with exceptional heraldic and historical interest. STRUCTURE AND MATERIALS: The body of the tray is made of finely ebonized wood or pressed and lacquered papier-mâché (papier-mâché/Japanning technique, typical of the finest period artifacts). On the sides, it features two imposing handles in bronze or cast brass, crafted with neo-Baroque/Rococo scrolls and curls, securely screwed to the base. The back features the classic original dark finish with period feet and screws.
THE CENTRAL MEDALLION AND COAT OF ARMS: In the center of the tray is a silver disc with a finely engraved heraldic coat of arms. - Medallion material: Solid silver, bearing the official "800" hallmark clearly visible and stamped in the lower right corner. - Heraldry: The coat of arms represents a marriage alliance between two noble houses, surmounted by a marquis or count's crown. The left shield features a vertical division (partite), while the right shield is divided horizontally with a spread eagle in the upper half and a rampant lion with a banner/flag in the lower half.
There is a small crack along the edge near one of the handles. - There is a chip on the opposite edge. - The surface has minor defects due to use and age.