Hard task

[amena]

I think this problem is a bit 'difficult to solve.
I found this little tray (190 grams)hand worked , which seems to me quite old.
Carries three hallmark as you can see in the photos. Both the Maltese cross and the letter M have been used widely throughout Europe and therefore it is difficult to identify with certainty.
The last mark I do not know what it is.
Does someone can hazard a guess?
Regards
Amena

[amena]

Hi all,
the question seems almost solved.
I had a feeling that this little tray could have something to do with Malta.
After some research I was able to contact Alaine Apap Bologna, a specialist, among other, in Maltese silver.
She kindly gave me this answer

I see, from bottom:
Alexander Ball's 'fist' assaymark: 1800-1810
'M' for Maltese standard mint mark, of the same period ( I.e. 835/1000 alloy, ca.)
Maltese Cross in octagonal punch, for Saverio Cannataci. He was registered as silversmith in 1806. His maker's mark is SA/CA in plain shield.
Now here is a problem I haven't as yet solved: He became Consul for silversmiths in 1848. This punch should be his Consul's mark, so something doesn't tally. This isn't the first time I have encountered this set of marks… I hope to find out, sometime soon, about this.

On the opinion of Alaine Apap Bologna it’s probably a platter, which accompanied a set of altar cruets.

Ragards
Amena

[dognose]

Hi Amena,

Thanks for taking the time to update this post, it's much appreciated.

Please be sure to let us know of any further information that comes to light.

Regards, Trev.