Porte-miette, Antique French Silver-Plated Crumb Tray & Scraper – Belle Époque Dining Service

A refined detail from the age of grand dining, this silver-plated crumb tray and scraper recalls the elegance of the French table during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

With its gently curved tray and matching handled scraper, the set was used to discreetly sweep crumbs from the table between courses — a quiet gesture of refinement that spoke volumes about the household’s hospitality. Long before modern conveniences, such objects were essentials in well-appointed homes and fine restaurants alike.

The tray’s subtle border detailing and classic form suggest production in the Belle Époque era, when dining was as much about ritual as sustenance. Today, it may be displayed on a sideboard or repurposed as a stylish catchall, but it carries with it the charm of service à la française.

Why it matters: Silver-plated crumb sets are increasingly scarce, as most were discarded when dining customs shifted in the mid-20th century. Surviving examples like this embody both history and decorative appeal, making them coveted by collectors of French silverplate and those who adore the rituals of old-world dining.

Dimensions: approx. 9” wide tray, 7” scraper (to be confirmed)
Condition: Vintage patina consistent with age and use; silverplate retains a soft sheen; fully functional.