The Piece
A beautifully proportioned serving tray crafted from quarter-sawn oak with undulating gallery sides and original Amerock brass hardware, stamped “PAT. PEND.” with the distinctive A-in-circle maker’s mark. The combination of warm oak grain and slender brass handles typifies mid-century American craftsmanship—refined, durable, and designed for everyday elegance. This piece bridges function and design, made for entertaining with understated sophistication.
Design & Construction
→ Form & Style:
Rectangular silhouette with sculpted sidewalls that rise in gentle waves for easy handling. The subtle curvature of the perimeter adds rhythm to the clean geometry of the tray. Slim Amerock handles in brass, slightly arched and patinated, lend a tailored finish and echo the company’s industrial-modern design language of the 1950s–1960s.
→ Material:
Solid quarter-sawn oak with visible ray flake patterning; brass hardware marked “PAT. PEND. / Ⓐ” (Amerock, Rockford, Illinois). The wood has been hand-finished in a rich, honeyed tone with a soft sheen that highlights its age and grain movement.
Provenance & Period
Manufactured in the United States, c. 1950–1965, when Amerock (formerly American Cabinet Hardware Co.) became a leader in decorative brassware for modern furniture and cabinetry. The hardware mark confirms early Amerock production prior to the adoption of later model codes.
Placement & Styling
Perfect on a coffee table, bar, or vanity—use to corral decanters, candles, or vintage glassware. Its architectural lines and material warmth make it a natural fit in both mid-century and contemporary interiors.