A silver plate with figures was examined by microscopy, radiography and metallography. The alloy composition of Ag 55%, Cu 45% forms a structure of copper-rich dendrites in a silver-rich matrix. The plate was hammered out from a castslug. Chemical treatment of the surface depleted the copper-rich phase, leaving a layer of silver. Relief decoration was developed by selectively removing the silver layer. Burnishing consolidated the spongy silver. A foot was soldered on; the background was gilded.