An Exceptionally Fine & Large Silver-Plated Venison Meat Platter & Dome, Circa 1900                             
 
The lobe-shaped dome featuring a handle cast in the form of a finely modelled stag standing regally atop a naturalistic rocky mound, the figure of a recumbent doe shown in the lower foreground. One side of the dome bearing an engraved dedication dated 1912.                      
The conforming platter is fused to a water jacketed, hollow body that when filled with hot water maintains the serving temperature of the contents throughout the course of the meal.        
 
Overall height, 22” x 27” wide (across the handles) x 19” deep.                         
In very fine overall condition, weighing a substantial 30.9 lbs.
 
Although there are no apparent makers marks, there are extremely strong stylistic similarities associated with works made by the esteemed British silversmithing firm, Elkington & Company of Birmingham, England.
                                                                                                               
ELKINGTON & COMPANY BIO:                                                                 
George Richards Elkington & Henry Elkington were the first to discover & patent the electroplating process. They were subsequently awarded Royal warrants to several members of the British Royal Family including Queen Victoria, King Edward VII, King George V, Queen Mary & King George VI. Elkington & Company were chosen as the suppliers of flatware on the British Royal Yacht Britannia, as well as in the luxury dining section of RMS Titanic.