A salver is a small, flat tray used to serve food or pass objects in a home. This ornate example, made of gilt silver and ivory around 1907, belonged to a prosperous American household. Such pieces marked their owner's refinement and wealth—and were central to the rituals of entertaining guests.
You set this gleaming tray before your visitor, its ivory handles warm under your fingertips. On it, a stack of calling cards, or perhaps small pastries arranged just so. The light catches the gilt surface as you move. Everyone in the parlor will notice.
Reflect
What object in your home do you keep for guests—or to feel proud of owning?