What is this unique Silverplate Tray

[cd_of_ks]

Hello, can silverplate experts tell me what use this tray had and what the symbols mean stamped on the bottom of tray.

[lacemaker3 · Accepted solution]

Just a pretty, decorative piece. Might have been used for calling cards. A card tray would have been displayed on a table in the front hall, and if people came to visit when the owners were out, they could leave their card in the tray to show they had stopped by. Later, when people were less formal, it might have been used to display some small, decorative items.

The marks are called pseudo-hallmarks. They are a maker's mark, but designed to imitate the hallmarks used on sterling silver in the UK.

[cd_of_ks]

Thank you for the information.  

[wetskunk]

The markings look to by Elkington & Co.