American silver two-handled tray, Peter Chitrey, Overstruck By Maltby Pelletreau, New York, circa 1820

of rounded rectangular form, the rim applied with a border of flower heads within C-scroll strapwork and acanthus, loop handles in the form of fluted and reeded S-scrolls, on four flowerhead supports ending in scrolled acanthus feet, engraved with later coat of arms and presentation inscription

some scratches and scuffs to surface, little wear to engraving, overall good condition
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The inscription reads: "Mrs. Margaret Renshaw Jones to Mrs. Mary Mason Jones 1823 / to Arthur Mason Jones 1884" Mary Mason Jones (1801-1891) was the daughter of banker John Mason, second president of Chemical Bank, and with her sisters Rebecca and Sarah, one of the leaders of New York Society in the second quarter of the 19th century.  She married in 1819 Isaac Jones, who also served as president of the bank.  This tray was a present from her mother-in-law, Margaret Renshaw (1765-1848), who had married Joshua Jones.

Ms. Jones was the aunt of novelist Edith Wharton, who immortalized her as Mrs. Manson Mingott in The Age of Innocence.  After inheriting the eastern block of Fifth Avenue between 57th and 58th streets from her father's estate, the widowed Mrs. Jones built in 1867 "Marble Row", as shocking at the time for its French styling and marble facades in a brownstone city as for its location, far above the fashionable area.  Society moved upwards, though, and in 1883 Cornelius Vanderbulit began construction on his mansion opposite.

Arthur Mason Jones (1855-1899) was Mary Mason Jones' grandson, by her son Mason Renshaw Jones.  The tray may have been given on his marriage to Cornelia Waldo.