Large Sheffield Plate Mirrored Table Centerpiece / Plateau, Attributed Boulton

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Description

Large Sheffield Plate Mirrored Table Centerpiece / Surtout de Table / Plateau, Attributed to Mathew Boulton Workshop, William IV Period, … Read more Large Sheffield Plate Mirrored Table Centerpiece / Surtout de Table / Plateau, Attributed to Mathew Boulton Workshop, William IV Period, Circa 1830

An exceptional and rare Sheffield plate mirrored surtout de table (plateau centerpiece), attributed to the workshop of Mathew Boulton, dating to the William IV period, circa 1830. Monumental in scale, the piece measures 52.5" wide × 22.5" deep × 4" high, with the inset mirrored surface measuring 50" × 20.5".

The plateau is enclosed by a finely executed pierced wirework surround, or gallery “fence,” composed of rhythmic scrolling volutes that form a continuous undulating pattern. This openwork design allows light to filter through, creating a sense of refinement and delicacy, while serving the practical role of framing and containing the elaborate silver, glass, or floral displays it once supported. At regular intervals, the scrollwork is punctuated by rectangular cartouches, each centered with an applied rosette wreath, symbolic of festivity and continuity. The upper border is edged with a chased foliate band, providing a tactile richness and adding classical ornament to the otherwise airy construction.

The mirrored top—possibly original—rests on a wood and iron reinforced base, consistent with early 19th-century Sheffield plate manufacture. The four supporting feet are 20th-century replacements, sympathetic to the original design. Age-related wear to both the mirror and silver plate attests to its history and authenticity, while it still presents beautifully as a grand centerpiece.

Symbolism & Use:
The mirrored plateau reflected the shimmer of silver, crystal, and candlelight, magnifying the sense of abundance and luxury.

The pierced wirework fence provided both protection and ornament, echoing neoclassical balustrade forms and emphasizing the order of the table display.

Foliate and rosette motifs reinforced associations of prosperity, conviviality, and continuity of classical ideals.

This surtout de table represents both the technical mastery of Sheffield fused plating and the artistic ambition of Boulton’s manufactory, which elevated utilitarian dining objects into stages for spectacle and display. Today it survives as a rare testament to the grandeur of 19th-century dining, equally striking in a traditional or contemporary interior.

Sheffield plateau 52.5"w / 22.5"d / 4"h
Inset Mirror Surround 50" w / 20.5" x d x 2" h See less