The octagonal form of the present tray virtually excludes it from being a product of the Pontypool factory, and it is more likely to be linked to the Usk japanning factory. Usk japanners were known to produce trays of octagonal form, combined with the use of crimson and gold-painted borders, however the decoration on Usk japanned ware is generally of a simplified nature. A letter by A.M. Cuyler written about Usk in 1807 states that 'Any person wishing for a particular pattern - to have his arms emblazoned - or a view of his house or grounds painted and japanned upon a tray or other article, upon sending in a drawing, may have it executed to his wishes... Old worn out things are also re-japanned and made good as new' (W.D. John and A. Simcox, Pontypool and Usk Japanned Wares, n.d., Newport, Wales, pp. 61 and 67-68.
A Regency tray, sold from the Estate of a Massachusetts Collector, Christie's New York, 19 June 1987, lot 24, displays remarkable similarities to the still life on the present tray, such as the honeysuckle flower draped below the table surface and the treatment of the grapes, peaches and strawberries.