Vintage Hand-Wrought Copper Sculptural Tray by Cassel Industries, c.1960's

Description: This sculptural hand-wrought copper tray by Cassel Industries is a distinctive example of American Mid Century Modern metalwork from the 1960's. Formed from copper, the design features a recessed central surface surrounded by four dramatically flared and upturned corners, giving the piece an expressive organic silhouette. Subtle irregularities associated with its hand-wrought construction complement the richly aged surface, which displays warm copper tones alongside darker areas of naturally developed patina. Presented in original vintage condition, the tray retains its authentic aged character and has been carefully inspected by our studio for stability and overall integrity, with surface oxidation, patina, and signs of age consistent with its history. The stamped Cassel Industries maker's mark, model number 61, and “Hand Wrought” designation on the underside further document its American manufacture and handcrafted character.

Fun Historical Fact

Hand-wrought copper enjoyed renewed popularity in American decorative arts during the mid-twentieth century as designers explored the visual contrast between traditional metalworking techniques and modern abstract forms. Unlike highly polished machine-produced objects, hand-worked copper naturally develops subtle variations in texture and surface that make individual pieces visually distinctive. Copper also acquires increasingly complex coloration with age, ranging from warm reddish and brown tones to darker oxidation and occasional green patination. Sculptural vessels and trays such as this one complemented the era's growing interest in organic forms, handcrafted materials, and decorative objects that could function simultaneously as useful furnishings and works of art.