Original Item: Only One Available. This is an original German WWII 40 centiliter silver plated gravy boat in the AH Formal Pattern, manufactured by Wellner and mounted to its matching underplate by a central post and wing nut. The complete piece measures approximately 10 1/2" long x 6 5/8" wide x 6 5/8" high and weighs approximately 1.16 kilograms (2.55 lbs).

The left side of the gravy boat is decorated with an Art Deco style political eagle with slightly spread wings above a wreathed static hook cross, flanked by the initials A H. This decorative arrangement is characteristic of the AH Formal Pattern associated with formal household and official entertaining use.

The underside of the attached underplate is marked:

WELLNER
40cl.
30

The 40cl. marking denotes a capacity of 40 centiliters, or 400ml. The circular 30 marking is associated with the amount of pure silver used during the electroplating process by Wellner.

The gravy boat is secured to the underplate by a threaded post and wing nut beneath the base. The assembly remains functional, and the boat can still be separated from the platter by loosening the wing nut. Protected areas between the two components show little to no tarnishing.

Overall condition is fine. The silver plated surfaces show even age related tarnishing, with lighter areas on the handle and underside where handling has reduced the oxidation. No major dents, bends, cracks, or structural damage are noted, and the mounting system remains complete and functional.

With its substantial 40cl capacity, Wellner maker mark, AH Formal Pattern eagle and monogram, attached underplate, removable wing nut mounting system, and well preserved overall condition, this is an impressive example of German WWII formal tableware. The overall tarnishing and lighter handled areas are fully disclosed. It would display especially well in an AH Formal Pattern silver, Wellner tableware, German WWII household or presentation silver, or advanced period decorative arts collection.

Silver, flatware and serving pieces that were specifically made for the residences of Adolf H were highly sought after by USGIs as bring back trophies. Many items were recovered at The Berghof and the Eagle’s Nest at Obersalzberg near Berchtesgaden. This platter is in fact one of the the rare and the most desirable of all AH's silver items. Every U.S. soldier wanted to bring home something of note. AH silver was a choice item. Unlike silver eating utensils that had many in a set, large serving pieces like this example numbered much fewer (and ere harder to transport). Many U.S. soldiers who where lucky enough to get a hold of AH's silver opted for the less cumbersome eating utensils. Many times only officers or soldiers with access to motor vehicles carried big pieces home.