a sterling silver tray, model no 944 M, circa 1880s.
Round tray on four ball feet, diameter 22.7 cm. Hammered surface with decoration of a fish among reeds and a small insect on the rim. The tray is partially decorated with copper. Marked underneath Tiffany & Co, 5767 Makers 2625, sterling silver (and other metals), 944 M. Engraved gift inscription underneath. Weight 624 g.
Compare the tray with the one in the collections at the Metropolitan Museum in New York (id no: 66.52.2). Their tray, dated 1879-80, from the same period depicts a frog and has model no 943. These items were part of a series of objects created by Tiffany & Co in a distinct Japanese style. The images, both engraved and rendered in relief, were derived from European graphic prints depicting Japan's art and art objects made in Japan and collected by Edward C. Moore, head of the silver department at the time and the creative director at Tiffany's.