This set of four miniature sterling trays/dishes were made by the Stieff Company of Baltimore, Maryland, founded in 1892. The sterling trays/dishes have a classic design and were listed in the 1937 Stieff Catalog under the "Novelties" category as individual ashtrays. According to information found online, these pieces were brought to the table after serving dinner to encourage guests who wished to smoke to use the ashtrays rather than disposing of ash on the fine china belonging to the host and/or hostess. The convenient size of the pieces also enabled guests to carry them around at parties, encouraging people to circulate rather than standing or sitting near ash receivers.

The miniature sterling trays/dishes are in excellent condition and have not been monogrammed. The pieces have been lightly hand polished and are free of dents and/or discoloration. The set shows little sign of use with very light scratches inside and on the feet that are related to storage. Each item measures 2.625" by 2.125" and stands just over .5" high. The dishes range in weight between 31g and 42g and have a combined weight of 135g or 4.34ozt. The undersides are marked "STIEFF STERLING" with product number "048-1".

These versatile miniature Stieff silver trays/dishes display beautifully and can be used as individual ashtrays or work equally well as nut or candy dishes. An elegant and useful vintage find!