Vintage Ianthe Birmingham Silver Plated Drinks Waiter | 8.5-Inch Chased Salver Tray
There is a distinct mid-century theatricality to the way Ian Heath Ltd approached silver tableware. Trading under the celebrated brand name Ianthe, this Birmingham workshop ensured that even the most modest drink could be served with a bit of traditional country-house flair.
This 8.5-inch circular salver or drinks waiter is a remarkably clean, crisp survivor of that mid-century era. The face of the tray is completely filled with an intricate, heavily chased rococo pattern composed of swirling acanthus scrolls, blooming floral motifs, and textured geometric accents. The raised edge is finished with a classic gadrooned border, designed to keep glasses secure while bringing instant vintage elegance to a modern home cocktail setup.
It is a perfectly proportioned, tactile addition to a contemporary drinks trolley or sideboard, serving beautifully as a dedicated base for a pair of crystal tumblers, a cocktail shaker, or simply acting as an elevated tray to organize fine perfumes on a dressing table.
Historical Details & Maker
• The Maker: Ian Heath Ltd (Ianthe), Birmingham, England.
• The Mark: Crisp IANTHE / MADE IN ENGLAND / SILVER PLATED stamp to the central underside medallion.
• Era: Mid-20th Century (Circa 1960s).
Condition & Specifications
• Dimensions: Total diameter of 8.5 inches (approx. 21.5 cm).
• Materials: Silver-plated base metal, texturized non-slip underside lining.
• Condition: Excellent vintage condition. The silver plating has been cleaned and polished to a beautiful mirror finish. The chased detailing remains sharp and highly defined with no signs of significant thinning or "bleeding" to the base metal. Shows only the most minor, superficial cleaning micro-scuffs under close inspection.