This lovely epergne would be used for a fruit or flower display as a centerpiece on a dining table or sideboard.  The piercing is a technique done using precision dies or stamping tools.  Silver plate items were extremely popular in the 19th century.  Silver plate was made using a base metal coated with a thin layer of silver, giving the appearance of silver at a lower cost.  The process was developed in 18th century England and refined in the early 19th century.