Antique Victorian Sterling Silver Tray 1870

An exceptional, fine and impressive antique Victorian English sterling silver tray with handles - boxed; an addition to our collection of silver serving trays. This exceptional antique Victorian sterling silver tray has an oval form. The surface of this Victorian silver tray is encompassed with exceptional bright cut engraved opposing leaf designs encasing stellate motifs, to a concentric band of floral and foliate swags. The surface incorporates a bright cut engraved interlacing bordered oval cartouche to the centre, ornamented with the contemporary engraved inscription 'Presented to the Hon C. C. Bowen, By his Fellow Colonists on his retirement , from the office of Resident Magistrate of Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand, 1875'. This exceptional inscription incorporates the crest of a falcon close, belled; this pertains to the family name Bowen. The raised rounded border of the tray is encircled with fine and impressive applied bead decoration to the rim. This exceptional example of Victorian silverware is fitted with a fine and impressive pair of cast sterling silver handles ornamented with scrolling leaf and bead decoration. This desirable medium sized tray is fitted with exceptional Regency style cast silver paw feet, accented with floral rosettes to the bracket. The tray is fitted to the original hinged boxed wood case; this is a fine and beneficial feature for the safe keeping of the tray. This exceptional and versatile Victorian silver tray was crafted by the renowned silversmiths John, Edward, Walter & John Barnard (Barnard &; Sons Ltd). This medium sterling silver tray with handles is a distinguished gift for weddings, anniversaries, housewarmings or to mark notable achievements. Elegant and versatile, it serves beautifully for entertaining, as a dining centrepiece or as part of a curated display. Maker: Barnard & Sons Ltd (John, Edward, Walter & John) Origin: London, England