Early 20th Century Cartier Modern Sterling Silver Desk Tray

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Description

Offered is an Edwardian Sterling Silver desk tray (circa 1910-1919), the solid rectangular base is divided into five wells, three … Read more Offered is an Edwardian Sterling Silver desk tray (circa 1910-1919), the solid rectangular base is divided into five wells, three are stationary compartments, featured at center is a removable Aladdin style fluid lamp (9.25 inch width) fitted with a locking mechanism base, flanked by two diminutive floating wells. The aesthetic of this piece embodies the opulence and excesses of the rich during the Edwardian period, known for style more relaxed and conservative as opposed to the former intricate Victorian era designs. Beyond providing soft light, the desk tray fluid lamp serves as a melting flame for letter sealing wax. Introduced to the early 20th century US market, the sleek piece's linear appearance and geometric shapes were favored by Cartier's discriminating consumers attracted by it's distinctive sharp-edged looks. Modern movement influence of Cubism is illuminated by design, seen chiefly in the form to function aspects of this extravagant desk tray; e.g. the piece's formal structure accentuates the reduction of natural forms to their geometric equivalents, and quite generously can accommodate storage of multiple items such as writing utensils, note paper and accessories, etc. In addition, the desk tray hints at a Modern movement transition to the American Art Deco period, reflected by the geometric theme accented with a whimsical detail, the Aladdin's lamp. Base marked 'Cartier', model number '5714 B', 'STERLING'.

Includes: (4) pieces total ; (1) multiple well tray, (1) fluid lamp with removable stopper, (2) small removable wells. Weight: 34.82 troy ounces (1083 g). See less