Revolving Old Sheffield Silver Plate Epergne

This Old Sheffield silver plate epergne showcases a refined Georgian-period scalloped motif embellished with acorns and foliage. It rotates with ease around its base for convenient access to all eight of its small dishes, cruet bottle holders and central basket. The epergne was introduced in France in about 1715, and its name derives from the French epargner, meaning to economize. The term is appropriate, as its many silver bowls, suspended by scrolling outstretched arms, carried a variety of delicacies, from pungent relishes, sauces, pickles and condiments to rare nuts and fruits, thus saving space during extravagant dining affairs.

This example of the epergne is masterfully constructed of Sheffield Silver Plate, a mixture of silver over copper. Although initially invented by accident in 1743, the Sheffield plating technique became a way to offer more affordable silver pieces to the consumer. Its sturdy nature and ease of decoration helped it become the most successful silver substitute in history.

Circa 1790

20" wide x 20" deep x 22 3/8" high