A Mexican 925 silver serving tray, marks for Taxco, unknown Mv in script conjoined maker's mark., the heavy gauge rectangular tray with rounded corner and a raised scalloped border, and curved twin handles, marked 'Sterling', 'Taxco', 'Hecho en Mexico' and with maker's mark to the underside. Weight 977g length 18.31 in., width 11.61 in.
- Scallop / Shell Motif - The shell motif has been used in furniture and decorative arts for centuries. In ancient Greece and Rome, shells were often used as decorative elements on furniture and in mosaics. The scallop or cockleshell are the most commonly used. During the Renaissance, the shell motif became popular in furniture and architecture, as the ornate decoration was seen as a symbol of wealth and luxury. In the 18th century, the Rococo style of furniture and decorative arts featured an abundance of shell motifs, and it was used by Thomas Chippendale and as a feature on Queen Anne style cabriole legs. In the 19th century, the shell motif was incorporated into Victorian furniture and decorative items, and often a representation of the the conch shell was inlaid into furniture.
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