Art Deco Burlwood Serving Tray

28”W x 2”H x 15 1/2”D
 

A striking example of Art Deco sophistication, this serving tray exemplifies the era’s "Streamline" aesthetic through a masterful combination of organic texture and polished geometry. The piece is defined by its central field of exhibition-quality burlwood veneer—likely maple or elm burl—selected for its dramatic, swirling grain pattern. This "peacock feather" figuring acts as the visual anchor, creating a dynamic sense of movement that was highly prized in the luxury interiors of the 1920s and 30s.

The veneer is framed by a rich, dark hardwood rim featuring elegant serpentine curvature that softens the strict linearity often associated with the period. Flanking the tray are dual statement handles rendered in silver plate. These bold, sculptural elements feature stylized fluting and scrolled terminals, bridging the gap between late Art Nouveau organicism and the industrial glamour of Art Deco.

The juxtaposition of the warm, chaotic burl against the cool, precise silver plate reflects the interwar fascination with modernity and mixed-material craftsmanship. Likely produced by a high-end European or American workshop, this tray represents a time when functional serving pieces were elevated to the status of decorative art, designed for the sophisticated entertaining culture of the Jazz Age.

This is a vintage piece with signs of age appropriate for its history of use. The silver plate handles exhibit a soft, aged patina, adding depth to the sculptural details. The underside of the tray shows visible wear to the wood finish, consistent with handling and placement over decades, verifying its authentic 20th-century provenance.

European or American

1920's - 1930's