The Art of Styling Antique Silver Centrepieces at Home

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When we see antique silverware, we’re often struck by its beauty, the finesse of its craftsmanship, and the weight of the material. But we rarely stop to imagine how these objects were actually used in the daily lives of those who owned them. Antique silverware has especially played a key role as a part of centrepieces and table ornaments for banquets and royal dinners since ancient times.

However, in today’s age, where antique and vintage silver table centrepieces and ornaments are available through antique stores and online auction houses like Giftex, it is surprisingly easy to bring silver home decor into a modern space that makes you feel like royalty.

Once reserved for palaces, aristocratic dining halls, and ceremonial tables, antique silver pieces now allow anyone to recreate a sense of quiet luxury and old-world charm. 

Antique silver centrepieces and table ornaments are more than decorative objects. They carry history, craftsmanship, and stories from another era. Their enduring appeal lies in their ability to feel both grand and understated at once. Unlike trend-driven décor, silver ages gracefully, developing a patina that adds character rather than diminishing value.

Also Read: Antique Silver in Home Decor

A Brief History of Silver Centrepieces and Table Ornaments

Silver has been associated with wealth and prestige for centuries. From ancient civilisations to European royal courts, silver objects were prized not only for their beauty but also for their durability and intrinsic value.

In the noble residences of the 18th and 19th centuries, the dining table was more than just a place to eat. It was a social stage, a symbolic space where power, taste, and refinement were displayed. These antique silver centrepieces became a hallmark of formal dining in Europe. 

Today, antique silver centrepieces offer a tangible connection to these periods, making them both decorative and collectible.

Types of Antique Silver Centrepieces and Ornaments

Silver table ornaments and centrepieces, often crafted from sterling silver (.925), range from functional tableware to intricate decorative showpieces designed to add luxury and elegance to dining tables, consoles, and sideboards.

Understanding the different types can help you choose pieces that suit your space and lifestyle.

1. Table Centrepieces

These are focal points for dining or coffee tables, designed to draw the eye.

• Silver Bowls and Dishes

Silver bowls are among the most versatile table ornaments. They can be shallow or deep, plain or intricately engraved. Traditionally used for fruit or sweets, they now work beautifully as standalone decorative accents or as holders for flowers, potpourri, or seasonal décor.

• Silver Vases

Silver vases hold flowers or evergreens, adding a polished, reflective look to a centrepiece.

• Épergnes

Épergnes are classic silver centrepieces consisting of a central stem with branching arms that hold small bowls or baskets. These dramatic pieces were designed for formal dining tables and still make a striking statement in décor, even when used sparingly.

• Silver Trays

Galleried trays with raised, pierced edges are used to secure glassware or decanters.

2. Functional Decorative Items

Items that serve a purpose while enhancing the table’s aesthetics.

• Candlesticks and Candelabras

Silver candlesticks range from simple, column-style designs to elaborate multi-arm candelabras. They create warmth and ambience while adding height and structure to table settings.

• Napkin Rings

Silver napkin rings were traditionally used to signal refinement at the dining table. Engraved, monogrammed, or embossed with floral patterns, they add a subtle sense of ceremony.

• Table Bells

Vintage silver table bells were once used to signal servants during meals. Now, they serve as elegant conversation pieces, adding a touch of old-world charm to dining rooms, studies, or bar counters.

3. Figurines and Showpieces

Smaller antique silver figurines are ideal for sideboards, shelves, coffee tables, or display cabinets. Their appeal lies in fine detailing and symbolic meaning.

• Animals and Birds

Popular motifs include elephants, parrots, swans, deer, and eagles. These figures often showcase intricate hand-engraving and sculptural depth, making them collectible as well as decorative.

• Mythological and Religious Figures

Silver figurines of deities and sacred symbols are valued for both spiritual significance and craftsmanship. 

• Botanical Accents

Silver-plated fruits like apples or bananas, along with leaves and floral forms, were designed to mimic nature while adding a touch of luxury. These accents work especially well in dining and living spaces.

4. Specialised and Seasonal Silver Ornaments

Some antique and vintage silver pieces were created for specific occasions, making them particularly charming additions to curated collections.

• Wedding Décor

Silvered or chrome-plated ornaments, including heart-shaped sculptures or celebratory table accents, were commonly used for wedding tables and continue to be meaningful keepsakes.

• Holiday-Specific Ornaments

Seasonal silver décor, such as reindeer, sleighs, or snowflake motifs, brings understated elegance to festive displays.

• Miniatures

Highly detailed miniature silver objects, including carriages, animals, or ceremonial scenes, are prized for their craftsmanship and make excellent display or gifting pieces.

Decorating with Antique Silver Centrepieces

Antique silver truly comes alive when it is styled with intention. Rather than treating it as a museum object, think of silver centrepieces as living décor that interacts with colour, texture, and light

1. Add A Statement Piece

Choose one antique silver centrepiece to lead the arrangement rather than clustering multiple large items. 

2. Mix Old with New for Balance

Antique silver looks most striking when paired with contemporary elements. Place a vintage silver bowl next to a modern glass vase, or combine a traditional silver centrepiece with clean-lined furniture. 

3. Add A Pop of Colour

Silver acts as a neutral base, making it perfect for colour accents. Fill a silver fruit bowl with vibrant seasonal fruits. Use fresh flowers with soft or bold hues in silver vases to create visual warmth. 

4. Play with Height and Scale

Varying height keeps the silver displays visually interesting. Pair low silver bowls with taller elements such as candlesticks or vases. When using smaller silver pieces, group them in odd numbers to create a sense of rhythm. 

5. Embrace the Patina

Do not over-polish antique silver. The natural patina adds character and depth.

6. Use Silver Centrepieces Creatively

Silver centrepieces do not always need to serve their original purpose. A decorative bowl can hold floating flowers, candles, or even natural elements like stones or dried foliage. A silver basket can be styled with folded napkins, ornaments, or seasonal accents. 

7. Seasonal Styling

Antique silver centrepieces are especially powerful during celebrations. For weddings, use silver bowls, vases, or trays with fresh white flowers, soft pastels, or floating candles to create an elegant and ceremonial feel. 

For festivals, adapt silver décor to traditional elements. During Diwali or similar celebrations, pair silver centrepieces with diyas, marigold flowers, or warm-toned candles. 

8. Keep the Arrangement Intentional

Avoid overcrowding. Antique silver is meant to be appreciated for its craftsmanship, not hidden among excess décor. 

Why Antique Silver Centrepieces Remain Relevant Today

In a world of mass-produced décor, antique silver centrepieces stand apart. Each piece reflects skilled craftsmanship, time, and individuality. They offer permanence in contrast to disposable trends and add depth to interiors that might otherwise feel flat or impersonal.

Antique silver centrepieces are not just decorative objects. They are conversation starters, heirlooms in the making, and quiet reminders that true beauty does not fade with time.

Giftex: A World of Collectibles Auction

This February, Giftex presents its much-anticipated A World of Collectibles auction, showcasing a carefully curated selection of timeless silver decorative pieces. Whether you are a seasoned collector or discovering antique silver for the first time, this is an opportunity to find a silver treasure that adds character and quiet luxury to your space.