This vibrant mid-century enamel on copper tray, hand-signed Brower, captures the playful yet modern spirit of the 1950s–60s studio craft movement. Featuring a stylised rooster and hen in striking red and black silhouettes, the design sits against a textured crackle-effect background in misted white, framed by rich green enamel edges.
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The tray demonstrates the classic vitreous enamel technique, where powdered glass is carefully sifted onto a copper base and then fired at high temperatures in a kiln. The firing process fuses the glass to the metal, creating a glossy, durable surface with brilliant, long-lasting colour. To protect the copper and ensure balance, the reverse is counter-enameled in teal — a hallmark of quality studio enamelling. Natural variations such as pinpricks, faint speckles, and fine crackle lines are all characteristic of hand-crafted enamels, adding authenticity and charm.
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These small enamel trays were popular in the post-war period as decorative yet functional art objects, often used as trinket dishes, ashtrays, or simply as display pieces. Today, they are highly collectible among lovers of mid-century modern décor, with the rooster motif in particular appealing to folk art enthusiasts and retro kitchenware collectors.
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This example, with its clear Brower signature, is part of a documented but little-researched body of work attributed to a studio enameller active in the United States during the mid-20th century. Each signed tray is unique, reflecting the individuality of the enamelling process.
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Dimensions
Approx: 20cm x 15cm]
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Condition
Glossy and vibrant overall
Minor edge rubbing and tiny kiln pinpricks, consistent with handmade enamelware
No cracks or repairs
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Key Features
Signed “Brower” (studio enameller, USA, c.1950s–60s)
Vitreous enamel fused to copper using traditional kiln-fired technique
Counter-enamelled reverse in teal/green for durability and stability
Bold rooster and hen motif in red and black with crackle glaze background
Decorative yet functional — ideal as a trinket tray or display piece
Collectible mid-century modern design object
