Faux Bamboo Brass Octagonal Tray
Other (Decorative Accessory/Serving Tray) · Hollywood Regency (1940s-1970s) · Likely manufactured by a specialty brassware company such as Sarreid Ltd. or a mid-century Italian/Indian export firm.
Type
Other (Decorative Accessory/Serving Tray)
Style Period
Hollywood Regency (1940s-1970s)
Material
Polished brass or brass-plated metal; likely solid brass given the patina and edge wear.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960-1980
Dimensions
Approximately 14 inches wide by 10 inches deep; height of rim is roughly 0.75 inches. Fits standard dresser-top or coffee-table scale.
Origin
Commonly produced in Italy, India, or the United States (notably Virginia Metalcrafters or Baldwin during the mid-20th century).
Designer/Maker
Likely manufactured by a specialty brassware company such as Sarreid Ltd. or a mid-century Italian/Indian export firm.
Value Estimate
$75 - $150 (USD) based on similar vintage sales in boutique or online marketplaces.
Description
An elegant Hollywood Regency octagonal tray featuring a distinctive faux bamboo rim. The piece reflects the mid-century obsession with Chinoiserie and exotic motifs, blending geometric precision with organic textures. Its warm brass tone and low profile make it a versatile anchor for a 'scape' on a sideboard or vanity.
Key Features
Octagonal (8-sided) silhouette; raised rim with simulated bamboo nodes; recessed flat well; heavy gauge metal construction.
Color & Finish
Medium-gold brass with a natural aged patina. Features moderate tarnishing and oxidation spots consistent with vintage metalware.
Construction Method
Cast and stamped metal construction. The faux bamboo rim is cast to mimic natural nodes and then joined to the octagonal base plate.
Joinery & Craftsmanship
Solder joints at the corners of the faux bamboo rim. Machine-pressed central tray with hand-finished decorative bamboo-style border.
Wood Grain & Species
N/A (Nometallic surface)
Surface Treatment
Polished finish originally; currently displaying an unpolished, authentic aged patina with light surface scratches and 'tea-spot' oxidation.
Upholstery Details
N/A (Non-upholstered metal item)
Hardware & Fittings
Integrated cast rim; no moving parts or secondary hardware visible.
Origin & Provenance
Commonly produced in Italy, India, or the United States (notably Virginia Metalcrafters or Baldwin during the mid-20th century).
Condition Notes
Good vintage condition. Visible surface oxidation and minor scratching. No significant denting or warping. Structural integrity is excellent.
Interesting Facts
The faux bamboo style, known as 'Chinoiserie,' became a staple of high-end interior design through the influence of Billy Baldwin and Dorothy Draper, who popularized such brass accents in luxury hotels and homes.
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-war shift toward glamorous, eclectic interiors that mixed historical European styles with East Asian influences.
Similar Pieces
Often confused with lacquered wood trays or silver-plated Gallery trays; distinguished by its specific faux-bamboo texture and brass composition.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft microfiber cloth. To restore shine, use a specialized brass cleaner (like Wright's). To maintain patina, avoid acidic cleaners and moisture.
Value Estimate
$75 - $150 (USD) based on similar vintage sales in boutique or online marketplaces.
Sustainability Notes
Highly sustainable due to metal durability and recyclability. Reusing vintage brass prevents the high environmental cost of modern smelting and plating.