Tin is a white metal and its color is somewhere between silver and aluminum. With age, oxidation with oxygen occurs and this tin oxide has a dull gray tint. Pure tin takes years to become tin oxide. This gray color is called patina. Tin is hardly toxic and is not absorbed by the body. As a result, it can store food and drink for a long time and the taste does not change either.

Shown is a large pewter oval scalloped serving tray with two baroque style handles. It has the typical dull gray hue due to oxidation with oxygen. At the bottom, the plateau is marked with an embossed shield above which the word “étain” and with a fleur de lis, a crown and the capital letters “S and E” on the inside. It is more than likely French in origin. Possibly dated to the middle of the 20th century.

Condition: signs of wear but overall in good condition.