This is a typical and exceptionally well preserved example of the copper metalwares produced by Hugh Wallis (1871-1943) in his studio at Altrincham, Cheshire from 1900 to 1940. After studying art at the Herkomer Art School, Bushey, Herts, Wallis opened his studio in 1900 and first registered his mark with the Chester Assay Office in 1905. His output was mainly trays, many of which were decorated with pewter inlay, a technique which he invented and which was also used by his son, Brian (1913-1981). The style of the pieces was essentially ‘Arts and Crafts’ with an emphasis on simple forms and decoration. Dating of his work has to be slightly uncertain but this tray was probably produced around the 1920s when the style he worked in was still popular.