Vintage Serving Tray, U of T buying Motto, Wood Wicker Oval Tray, University of Toronto Coat of Arms, Velut Arbor Aevo

Large vintage oval wood tray with wicker sides and handles. It measures 20 3/4” long x 14.5” x 1.5” high.

The Latin “Velut arbor ævo” and the U of T coat of arms are painted in the centre, along with crossed leafy stems.

The U of T crest is two open books with a beaver at the base, the Royal and Imperial Crown, and an oak tree at the top. It was designed in 1857 by Daniel Wilson, who later became U of T president. The tree, originally a maple but later changed to an oak (for unknown reasons), reflects the university's motto, “Velut arbor ævo.” The Latin phrase is translated as “may it grow as a tree through the ages.”

The tray is in good vintage condition. There's a bit of damage to the wicker on the underside only - see last photo upper left corner.

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