Victorian Silverplate Egg Cruet – Service for 4

An example of the Victorian near-obsession of providing a proper method for serving each and every item of food, is the egg cruet. Sometimes referred to as an egg frame, it was a table item made precisely for holding and serving boiled eggs. The earliest known examples of the egg cruet date all the way back to the 1740s, but it was the Victorian era that saw the zenith of the egg cruet. The design of an egg cruet consisted of a stand for holding two to eight removable egg cups, together with slots or hooks for supporting egg-spoons, and usually attached to a base plate with feet. 

Found at market in England, this lovely set with its traditional configuration brings to mind the original “frame” design. Set upon a gleaming tray with shapely turned wood handles that culminate on each end with an elegant finial, this egg cruet presents four removable egg cups held in place on slender posts for ease of transport to the table or buffet. Set upon the tray within the bounds of its graceful and dimensional scalloped rim, each statuesque cup rests above a curvaceous base accented by a delicate beaded border which gently replicates the handle’s motif. 

Diminutive spoons in a lush Art Nouveau style help ensure each morsel of creamy egg is captured during the morning repast. Resting in their own handy slots, the spoons dramatically recline against a shimmering decorative rail suspended between the cups.  Jaunty silver knobs spaced along the rail replicate the lower tray’s spherical bun feet while cleverly separating the petite spoons from one another to prevent undesirable clinking and clanking as the precious breakfast cargo makes its way from the kitchen to its final destination.

Created at their Globe Nevada Silver Works on Highgate Street in Birmingham, England, the fine silversmiths at Daniel & Arter executed this lovely and functional set for maximum presentation at table or on the breakfast tray. With its winsome details and charming presence, we are certain this Victorian Silverplate Egg Cruet Service will become a most memorable and oft-employed treasure in your collection.

Strictly one-of-a-kind and subject to prior sale. In excellent, restored condition. Tray measures 9.5″W x 5″D x 1.5″H, Egg cups measure 2.75″H x 1.75″ in diameter, Spoons measure 4.75″L.