Victorian Era Silver Casket Plate “Our Darling”

Measures:  5” long, 1.5” tall

First of all, it is unlikely that this plate was ever used for it’s intended purpose.  This was discovered at an estate auction here in Maine, which included the contents of an 1800’s General Store.  I believe this was an item (perhaps a sample?) that was for sale in the store. 

The plate is silver, it dates to the mid to late 1800’s.  It was quite tarnished when found, I have lightly polished the front with a simple baking soda paste and apple cider vinegar.  More could be done, depending on the buyer’s preference.  It is engraved with doves and “Our Darling” in a beautiful Victorian calligraphy.  Sadly, the infant mortality rate was very high during the 1800’s for a number of reasons, not least of which were diseases that have all but been eradicated today.  Additionally, penicillin wasn’t discovered until 1928 so what are now commonplace and easily cured illnesses were often deadly to children prior to this discovery.  This plate would be a nice addition to a collection of oddities and would certainly be a conversation piece!