This was my great grandmother's, from when she lived in Germany in the 1890s-1930s. It's a sugar sifter, but could also be used as a tea strainer. I'm honestly not sure if it's silver, alpacca, or silver plate, as I don't see any markings on it. But judging by the patina color I'm thinking it's likely sterling; she had a lot of silver. It originally had a wooden handle, which has gone missing and could be easy to replace. The sifter has a built-in perforated bowl and sculpted, scalloped edges. It has wonderful workmanship featuring an ornate art nouveau ferrule. The sifter/strainer is in good antique condition with some patina. I'm certain it could be cleaned up back to its shine with a good rubbing. This may be from the late 1800's, but it's more likely from the 1920s. From a nonsmoking home.