You said you "came across" it !! From where,, looks like something used in the UK for High Tea,, maybe at a restaurant or hotel !!
Few of the higher end hotels here also have High Tea !! Water in the kettle cups and saucers on the tray to stay warm !!
Looking at the legs/feet it appears to have sat on something to make it portable !! I am guessing a coal burner ??
Anything stamped on the bottom ??