EPNS Elkington Scalloped Glass Centrepiece with Hunting Scene Engraving

• Ep / Epns - The abbreviation for electroplated and electroplated nickel silver, that is, silver plate.
  
  The body of the piece is made of a common metal such as copper, and electroplating involves placing an extremely thin layer of silver on the surface of the piece. The resulting silver content is very small.
  
  Unlike solid silver items, there is minimal underlying scrap value, and the value of such pieces is based on the quality, design and construction of the piece.
• Scallop / Shell Motif - The shell motif has been used in furniture and decorative arts for centuries. In ancient Greece and Rome, shells were often used as decorative elements on furniture and in mosaics. The scallop or cockleshell are the most commonly used. During the Renaissance, the shell motif became popular in furniture and architecture, as the ornate decoration was seen as a symbol of wealth and luxury. In the 18th century, the Rococo style of furniture and decorative arts featured an abundance of shell motifs, and it was used by Thomas Chippendale and as a feature on Queen Anne style cabriole legs. In the 19th century, the shell motif was incorporated into Victorian furniture and decorative items, and often a representation of the the conch shell was inlaid into furniture.
  
  

This item has been included into following indexes:

• centrepieces - silver plate items 129
• Elkington & Co. (England)
  • silver plate makers or retailers 73
  • silver wares 314