Antique Kayserzinn pewter fish platter Jugendstil 21 1/2" long

Antique Kayserzinn pewter fish platter Jugendstil 21 1/2" long

Antique lead free pewter fish platter in a Jugendstil design. The design is better known as Art Nouveau meaning "new art" in France but at the same time this same style was flourishing in Germany where it was called "jugendstil" or "youth style". The style is inspired by nature, the natural environment and curving lines commonly including flowers and plants. This piece measures 21 1/2" x 10 1/2". It is decorated in high molded relief with an underwater sea scape including a family of fish, a crab and water lily flowers, buds and cat tails. The crab and flora on the rim hang down the sides extending sightly over the borders and into the water scene. The water scene is alive with curving lines creating the illusion of movement. There is a mother and father fish with their 2 little baby fish. The reverse of the platter is signed in an oval "Kayserzinn 4143". Kayserzinn was a line made by the German metal work company J.P. Kayser & Sohn from 1894 until 1925. In 1894 they made a special pewter formula using a lead free tin alloy & silver. All pieces were marked "Kayserzinn" and a number from 4000-4999. The first number "4000" was used in 1895, the last number "4999" was used in 1925. The brain storm behind this line was to make a line of utility ware for every day use in the new Jugendstil/Art Nouveau style. The wares made prior to 1910 were considered the best. The artistic directer and lead designer for this line was Hugo Levin. Other designers were Karl Geyer, Herman Fauser and Karl Berghof. There are no dings, no dents and no breaks in this piece. There is wear to the images in the underwater scene consistent with age, pewter is soft and this piece is over 100 years old. On the outer rim on the reverse of the platter there is a deep 4" long scratch. There are many surface scratches consistent with age. The platter is very much as photographed. There are areas with dark patina,light areas of finish and some areas that look like they have old water drip marks. This is difficult for me to describe but the photos are accurate. I washed this with water and mild dish washing liquid once. I will leave fine polishing of this piece to the buyer. Many people prefer not to polish old pewter. The best thing about Kayserzinn pewter is that it is an authentic piece of antique pewter with no lead, safe for use on your table.

Item ID: RL-8128

$225 USD

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