About Michelle Lieberman Expertise My expertise is in the area of American sterling silver and coin silver flatware and holloware, including identifying silversmiths and makers, types and patterns of flatware and their usage. I am unable to answer questions pertaining to silverplate or foreign silver.
Experience With over 25 years experience in selling vintage silver, I now devote much of my time educating others in this field.
Education/Credentials BA California State University Los Angeles
Question QUESTION: I bought this beautiful antique looking piece at a yard sell, yet I don't know what it is. I was told it was used to collect cigarette butts in an earlier time. It is sterling silver with a wooden handle, kinda like a pan with a lid attached. On the bottom of the back it has a crown with the initals EL in curseive under the crown. It also says Italy under that. Can you at least tell me who the maker is? Thank you for your time.
Sincerely,
Tnausa
ANSWER: Hello Tnausa.
What you describe sounds to me like a silent butler. It's used by wait staff to collect then discard trashy bits from the table, including emptying ashtrays into it. You can still find them being used occasionally at fancy hotels and restaurants.
I can't help you with the maker as I know nothing about Italian silver.
Regards,
Michelle
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QUESTION: Thanks for the suggestion of what the item may be. Can you give me a reference as to where I can find out about Italian silver. I have looked on some sites but have found nothing with those initials. Anything would be of help. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Tnausa
Answer Certainly. I should have thought of it!
There is an excellet website for international marks. It's www.925-1000.com. If you can't find it there, they also have an international silver forum there. You can post a question and hopefully someone will know the mark.
