1890-1910 Art Nouveau Silver-plated Tray brass base By WMF WMFM

US$1,000.00

The Art Nouveau movement, which flourished from the 1890s to the 1910s, emphasized organic forms and intricate designs, often drawing inspiration from nature. Silver-plated items from this era frequently featured floral motifs, flowing lines, and asymmetrical compositions. WMF (Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik) was a prominent German manufacturer known for producing high-quality metalware in the Art Nouveau style

 

Sometimes the inscription "WMF" is merged with the mark "B" which means additional metal Britannia (rare) or with the mark "M" meaning brass base (even more rare) the complete inscription looks like "WMFB" or "WMFM"

WMF is the company. M means it's silver plate over brass (Messing in German)

WMF is a German company - WÜRTTEMBERGISCHE METALLWARENFABRIK

 

 

Most likely made somewhere in between1886-1903.

 

Their pieces often incorporated elaborate handles and detailed ornamentation. These trays were used for serving food or displaying decorative items. The presence of a bee or insect detail is a characteristic element of Art Nouveau design, symbolizing nature and vitality. Given the information, I believe this tray is from the Art Nouveau era.