Wilcox Silver Plate Game Bird Server

Sold as presented; to be candled by Salvage Bohemia.

Approx. 16 oz wax pour (pair) • $2.30 per oz

An extraordinary Victorian silver-plated covered butter dish by the Wilcox Silver Plate Company of Meriden, Connecticut, richly ornamented from its engraved dome to its sculptural feet and figural bird finial.

The square-bodied dish is raised dramatically on four elongated legs, each modeled with scrolling foliate ornament and a shell-like motif at the shoulder. Small angular handles extend from either side, while the tall domed cover gives the piece an almost architectural silhouette.

Its lid is hand-engraved with a large stylized botanical motif, combining sweeping leaves and geometric flourishes characteristic of the decorative experimentation found in late-19th-century American silver plate. Crowning the entire piece is a remarkably detailed game-bird finial, its wings lifted and tail feathers raised as though the bird has just landed on the lid.

Wilcox Silver Plate Company was based in Meriden, Connecticut, one of the major centers of American silver manufacturing during the 19th century. The company produced elaborate electroplated hollowware for the Victorian table, including documented covered butter dishes in quadruple plate.

Repurposed as a candle, the removable dome becomes part of the presentation rather than something to hide away. The candle sits inside the raised silver vessel while the bird-topped lid can be displayed beside it, then replaced between burns. After the candle is finished, it remains a collectible piece of American Victorian silver plate, beautiful displayed closed on a dining table, sideboard or library table.

Origin: Meriden, Connecticut, USA, Late 19th century
Maker: Wilcox Silver Plate Company
Condition: Good antique condition with small signs of age and use.