This tray relates to the products of Henry Clay of Birmingham, who applied for a patent for heat resistant panels of laminated paper in 1772, a technique generally called `papier mâché', which was introduced into England, probably from France, in the late 17th century. This invention was initially called `paper ware' and grew from a local craft to a large-scale international industry. Clay described himself on his trade card as `Japanner in ordinary to His Majesty and to His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales' and specialised in small japanned items, such as tea-caddies and trays. Clay moved to London in 1802, where the company remained active until 1860, whereas Clay's Birminham branch was purchased in 1816 by the firm Jennens & Bettridge. William S. Burton was probably the dealer from whom this tray was purchased.

See illustration