This antique Art Deco dresser tray showcases a refined combination of craftsmanship and design, emblematic of early 20th-century decorative arts. The tray features a circular glass center, elegantly bordered with intricate filigree metalwork. Adorning the handles and glass jeweled areas, the filigree overlay adds a delicate, ornate texture, highlighting the craftsmanship of the era. The jewels are of green, gold, red, blue, purple, amber glass. Sandwiched between two panes of glass is a handmade lace doily, adding an element of traditional charm to the tray's overall aesthetic. The interplay between the transparent glass and the lace creates a layered visual effect, enhancing its decorative appeal. The tray rests on four ball feet.
Though the metal exhibits a few dark spots, this patina is typical for a piece of this age and serves as a testament to its history. The tray bears the signature "Colonial Quality," a mark associated with Samstag & Hilder Brothers, an importing and notions company that began using the trade name around 1918. These pieces were produced into the 1920s and reflect the same fine quality as works by contemporaries like Apollo and Empire Art.
With a diameter of 9 1/8 inches and an overall length of 11 1/2 inches including the handles, the tray is perfectly sized for a vanity or dresser. The base of the piece is marked with the "Colonial Quality" hallmark, further confirming its origin. The company operated showrooms in major cities such as New York, Chicago, St. Louis, and Boston, with a primary address at Samstag's 1200 Broadway, New York. This piece, with its intricate detailing and historical significance, is an excellent representation of the artistry and quality associated with Colonial Quality items.
As you can see from the photos, different lace doilies could be had.