Hi,
I recently bought this desert/beverage trolley on auction. I love it! I’ve seen a few online and I was wondering if any knew its maker?
From what I’ve gathered, it’s French, around 1950’s. Some describe it as brass, others as bronze.
Does anyone have any additional information?
Much Appreciated!
This is in French Style of a Tea/Patisserie Cart and some even refer to them as a Trolley. Establishments in Europe would use this style because so many have patios or “open air” dining and this style would protect the pastries and sandwiches from the outside elements. You can find this style more often in beautifully carved Mahagony with Brass from the late 1800’s to mid 1900’s.
You can even see this style used today in France in a Brasserie, Cafe or “Salons de thé” that specializes in drinks and pastries.
https://foter.com/tea-carts-serving-carts
Mmmm,, I am not sure how many are out there !! What struck me, and why I asked, was all the pics look the same on those first two !! We know one is yours but not the other one !! The link above has the same or similar cart !! I do not know if the site is just picture sharing or what !! I have a friend on another forum that collects French stuff !! Both antique and vintage !! Let me check on this cart and see what she has to say !! There is one French maker that we have discussed on occasion but can`t remember the name !! She will remember !! Will let you know when I hear back !! My thinking is that these were mainly for use in restaurants since the center part is enclosed !! Tea or drinks on top, pastry and sweets in the center,, used dishes picked up at table went on bottom !! That just seems logical to me !!
Martha it seems once you put Maison Jansen they “ASSUMED” it was made by them! Not so! There were sooooo many makers and so many knockoffs that a “hands on” would be required to see quality/workmanship.
I also believe that this is could be older than the 50’s from the picture.
Majority of the pictures on the internet all trace back to Dallas – seems the Antique Dealer listed pictures on several sites under several business names (or it changed hands to several dealers over a short period of time!)