Antique Victorian Wood & Glass Serving Tray featuring "Godey's Fashions for May 1864" Original Steel Engraving
Up for sale is a beautiful, authentic piece of Americana and domestic craftsmanship from the late 19th to early 20th century. This antique serving tray showcases an original, full-page steel engraving titled "Godey’s Fashions for May 1864" preserved securely beneath thick glass.
Originally featured as a multi-figure folding style plate in the highly influential American women's periodical Godey's Lady's Book during the Civil War era, this historic print showcases five women and three children in a park setting modeling grand spring crinoline attire.
Construction & Material Authentication: This tray was historically custom-constructed to preserve the highly prized magazine illustration. The piece is entirely consistent with its period origin, noting:
• Backing: Thick, rough-sawn solid wood planks (not plywood, cardboard, or fiberboard).
• Fasteners: Hand-hammered antique horizontal nails showing deep, genuine oxidation spots around the iron heads where they meet the wood grain.
• Hardware: Dual cast brass handles affixed securely with classic flathead slot screws (no modern Phillips-head screws).
Condition Report:
The tray is in very good antique condition, showing age-appropriate wear that highlights its historical narrative. The wooden frame retains an elegant deep patina with only minor surface marks. The glass is intact without cracks or major chips. The 160-year-old print has naturally and beautifully faded into a uniform, rich monochrome/sepia palette over time. There is minor, historical light water staining and waviness along the bottom edge of the paper, consistent with its life as a functional household tea tray, which adds massive character and confirms its authenticity.
Please carefully review all photos for an accurate depiction of the item's texture, backing construction, and current cosmetic state.
Dimensions:
18 inches handle-to-handle by 11 inches.
Packed with extreme care to guarantee safe transit.
Related Items:
Antique Godey’s Lady’s Book May 1864 Fashion Plate Wood Glass Serving Tea Tray
$144.99
Antique Godey’s Ladies Playing Cards Fan-C-Pack Playing Cards
$34.95
Antique Godey's Americanized Paris Fashion Print 1968 Southern Belle Style *Am3
$14.50
