When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
Antique Wood Serving Tray with Brass Handles – Possible Historic Hotel Wentworth / Huntington Hotel Pasadena ProvenanceA beautiful and intriguing antique serving tray featuring an attractive wood-grain finish, original brass-colored metal handles, decorative interior trim, and a lovely blue-and-cream floral brocade fabric beneath the original glass.What makes this particular tray especially interesting is its possible connection to the historic Hotel Wentworth, later known as the Huntington Hotel, in Pasadena, California.Historical Background & ProvenanceDuring restoration of this antique tray, a handwritten historical note was discovered concealed within its original backing. The note references a woman named Elizabeth who reportedly worked for many years at a hotel in Pasadena, California, and mentions the hotel’s demolition or alteration around 1989–1990.This timeline is particularly interesting because the historic Huntington Hotel, originally opened as the Hotel Wentworth in 1907, underwent major demolition and reconstruction beginning in the late 1980s following earthquake-safety concerns.The hotel’s furnishings and other contents were reportedly liquidated during this period.It is believed that this tray may have originated from that historic property and possibly was among the items dispersed during the hotel’s liquidation.Although the hotel’s connection cannot be conclusively documented, the original handwritten note provides an intriguing historical association.Original Features* Antique wood frame with striking decorative wood-grain finish
* Original brass-colored metal carrying handles
* Original glass covering the textile
* Decorative interior frame trim
* Attractive rectangular design
* Approximately 13 inches long by 11 inches wide, excluding handlesRestoration & ConditionThe original brocade fabric had deteriorated extensively with age and was no longer salvageable.To preserve the tray and return it to an attractive, usable decorative condition, the deteriorated fabric was replaced with a newer blue-and-cream floral brocade. New backing material was also installed.All remaining components, including the frame, handles, glass, and decorative trim, are original.The tray retains its authentic aged character, including surface wear, finish variations, and imperfections consistent with its age and history.Please examine all photographs carefully, as they are an important part of the description.A Unique Historical CollectibleAn attractive antique tray with an especially interesting discovery hidden within its construction.Ideal for collectors of antique serving trays, historic hotel memorabilia, Pasadena history, early American hotel furnishings, or distinctive decorative antiques.The original handwritten note discovered during restoration is an important part of the item’s history.All reasonable offers will be considered.AI Photography Disclosure: The last photograph only, if identified as an AI-generated lifestyle image, is intended to demonstrate how the tray might appear in a decorative setting. The actual item may appear larger or smaller in the staged image. All other photographs show the actual item being offered.