Antique James Tufts Quadruple Plate Silver Shell Victorian Aesthetic Casserole

Description

Victorian quadruple plate serving dish was made by James W Tufts, one of the premier companies around the turn of the century. This piece probably dates from the late 1800's or early 1900s and is so lovely in its Victorian Aesthetic beautiful design taken from the sea. The casserole base has very detailed large high-relief scallop shells and seaweed that winds its way around and over the shells. Above and below the scallop shells, are lots of smaller sea shells that make a pretty border.
The casserole dish has a lid with opening for a serving spoon and the lid has swirls and flowers. The base is marked: James W. Tufts Boston Warranted Quadruple Plate and the numbers 853 and a couple very small marks that I can't make out. On the underside of the lid it is also marked with the numbers 853, a match with the base.
This lidded tureen is quite large and heavy. It measures over 12 1/2" across including the handles. The diameter of the opening is almost 8 1/4". Height without the lid is just over 4 1/4". Height to the top of the finial is about 8". (That is tough to measure.)
The silverplate has tarnished and I am not sure how well this dish would polish. I have enjoyed it for years with its age patina. This antique piece does have some surface wear and scratches and some very small nicks around the top edge of the base. There is one pinpoint ding on the top of the lid. The interior of the base has scratching, some pitting, and some stains that may be a bit of rust. Purchase is made knowing this piece is in as found condition and may have additional imperfections that I have missed. Please view all photos for best idea of condition and let me know if you need any additional photos.
I am happy to ship insured USPS, FedEx, or UPS. Please let me know your preference at auction close.