Up for auction is this ornate Victorian Era Meriden B. Company silverplate shell shaped tray with glass bud vase. I'm not sure of it's original purpose, maybe a card receiver, pickle or olive tray. Meriden was started in the mid-late 1800's, so this could very possibly be an antique, or at least very nearly. I'm not sure how long this company manufactured their wares. This lovely item is 8" tall to the top of the vase, and the shell tray is about 6 1/2 x 6 1/2". It has three scrolled feet under the tray and an elegant sweeping handle that comes nearly to the top of the epergne vase. The vase itself is 4 1/2" long and is 1 3/8" diameter at the top. T is one chip at the top of the vase, but because of the shape and pattern of the vase, is not a real detriment to the overall look. I'm not an expert in silver, but the silverplating either needs a very good cleaning or is worn off in spots. T is one decorative scroll on the sweeping arm that is broken off on one side, and I'm not sure that the other one is totally intact, it may be missing a small tip. It is marked on the bottom "Made and Guaranteed by Meriden B. Company" and numbered 1000. The detail on the scrolls is exquisite and unbeleiveable. Regardless of the flaws, this is still a very beautiful and unusual item. Thank you for looking!