Accession Number

1986.008.0002

Alternate object names

Renaissance 'mudejar' salver on foot;Tray

Creation Date

circa 1575

Description

A salver was a footed, plate-like vessel used in table service and often paired with a chalice or cup that would rest on it. This gold salver consists of a round, shallow plate with a wide, flat brim that is fixed to a circular, pedestaled foot. The interior of the plate of the plate is engraved with a Hispano-Moresque geometric pattern that is a masterwork of engraving. A main, quadrant, cruciform pattern is composed of four ornate, “C”-shaped figures interspersed with floral motifs. Polished elements of the design are highlighted by a matte background created through thousands of tiny, cross-hatched, chisel marks. Stamps on the underside appear to be remnants of the Spanish escutcheon – official indicators that taxes had been paid for the valuable piece.

Exhibition Label

Case/Object Caption (2023):

Footed Salver
Gold (Potosí, c.1600)
Gift of Jamestown Inc.
1986.008.0002

Salvers were very common in the homes of aristocratic Spaniards and Spanish colonists during the 17th century where they were used to present an ornate drinking vessel, known as a bernegal, to a lord or lady. They originate from an earlier period in which the server had to pour a little wine from the drinking vessel into this saucer-like dish, tasting it to make sure it was not poisoned before offering it.

This example is not only notable for its exquisite craftmanship and Moresque design but also because it is a sole survivor of this form in gold. Many examples were made in silver but, had this salver ever reached Spain, it would probably have been melted down for its cash value by Napoleon’s army in the early 19th century.
Previous Exhibit Label (Removed March 29, 2023):

Footed Salver
Recovered from Santa Margarita
Gift of Jamestown Salvors, Inc.

The term "salver" is derived from the custom of presenting food or drink to a servant who would ensure it was 'safe from all treachery' by tasting it. By the 1600s, a salver, or serving platter, was a common part of tableware. This salver is far from common, however. It was made of gold and decorated with intricate patterns hand-chiseled by a masterful artisan. Two marks on the back of the platter, though difficult to read, establish the plate's origin in the New Word and indicate Spain's quinto tax had been paid.

Caption under the photograph: Juan Bautista Espinosa, Still Life with Silver Objects, 1624.