This is a one of a kind cut and engraved tray signed by both Hawkes and the engraver, Joe Sidot. Occasionally, on some very rare, important pieces the engraver also signed the work - we see this most often with Fritsche pieces, but several other exceptionally talented engravers also signed their rock crystal work - often near the tusks. Joe Sidot was a master, as is evidenced by this try, and he signed it on one of the central tusks.In 1971 the late Dr. Raphael Borrelli purchased this piece and wrote the Corning Museum of Glass. Kenneth Wilson, curator for the museum, responded to Dr. Borrelli's enquiry, indicating that Joe Sidot was in fact a top copper-wheel engraver. The blank of the tray is one Penrose Hawkes indicated was often reserved for special designs (this is also the blank Hawkes' Pueblo and Panel was cut on). Penrose Hawkes went on to assert that the plate was likely a special order and that only the most special pieces were signed by the engravers. This original corresponding letter is photographed and will be included with the tray.This piece took an enormous amount of skill and time and Joe Sidot was clearly proud of one of his master works. This piece belongs somewhere special!

Perfect condition - 11" wide, 1 1/4" tall