Silver-Plated Scalloped Oval Serving Dish or Nut Bowl
Hollowware - Small Oval Bowl/Dish · Likely a mid-tier commercial manufacturer such as Sheridan, Leonard, or International Silver Co. The absence of visible high-relief hallmarks on the surface suggests a mass-produced American or British silver-plate brand.
Pattern: Generic Chippendale or Rococo Revival scalloped and fluted pattern, very common in 20th-century silver-plated hostware.
Type
Hollowware - Small Oval Bowl/Dish
Maker
Likely a mid-tier commercial manufacturer such as Sheridan, Leonard, or International Silver Co. The absence of visible high-relief hallmarks on the surface suggests a mass-produced American or British silver-plate brand.
Material
Silver plate over base metal (likely nickel silver or brass). Visible 'bleeding' of the gold-toned base metal through the thin silver layer indicates Electroplated Nickel Silver (EPNS).
Dimensions
Approximately 6-8 inches in length; weight estimated at 200-300 grams. This appears to be an individual tabletop serving size.
Description
A classic examples of mid-century silver-plated hollowware, this oval dish features a traditional lobed shape with deep fluting. The center clearly shows a flat-head screw, which is the mechanical attachment point for a pedestal base. Due to significant polishing and environmental exposure, the silver layer has worn thin, revealing the warmer-toned base metal beneath.
Key Features
Quatrefoil scalloped shape; radial fluted interior; central screw-post construction; significant plating wear (bleeding).
Material & Composition
Silver plate over base metal (likely nickel silver or brass). Visible 'bleeding' of the gold-toned base metal through the thin silver layer indicates Electroplated Nickel Silver (EPNS).
Finish & Decoration
Polished silver finish with heavy tarnish and plating loss. The decoration features radial fluting (gadrooning) along the rim and a lobed, scalloped quatrefoil body.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Marks are not visible in the provided image; they would typically be located on the underside of the base. Based on the screw construction, it likely bears an 'EPNS' or brand-specific stamp rather than sterling hallmarks.
Construction Details
Machine-stamped or die-struck body with a central screw-post assembly. The visible screw head in the center indicates the bowl was attached to a pedestal base (now missing or detached) via a threaded rod.
Functional Features
Multipurpose serving vessel for nuts, candies, or condiments. The central hole with screw is a functional mechanical join for a footed stand.
Handle & Grip Details
No handles present; the scalloped rim provides the primary grip surface.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial production quality. The stamping is precise and symmetrical, but the use of a visible screw instead of a silver-solder joint indicates a cost-saving manufacturing approach.
Authentication Indicators
The assembly method (screw) is a hallmark of silver-plated production rather than high-end sterling. The wear pattern confirms it is plated rather than solid silver.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely United States or United Kingdom; factory-produced using industrial electroplating and mechanical stamping presses.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (c. 1940-1970). This style of 'mass-luxury' plated ware was popular for wedding gifts and formal dining in post-WWII households.
Age Estimate
circa 1950-1965. The screw-head style and the wear pattern on the electroplating are consistent with mid-century household use.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of formal dining in the mid-20th century, where silver-plated items allowed middle-class families to emulate the 'Grand Baroque' or 'Chippendale' styles of the wealthy.
Condition Notes
Fair to Poor. Significant tarnish, heavy plating loss ('bleeding'), and surface scratches. The central screw suggests the piece is incomplete, likely missing its original pedestal foot.
Value Estimate
$5 - $15 USD. The value is decorative rather than intrinsic, as the silver content is negligible and the piece appears to be missing its base.
Care & Maintenance
Gentle cleaning with mild soap. Avoid abrasive polishes which will further remove the remaining thin silver layer. Store in a dry place with anti-tarnish strips.
Similar Pieces
Sheridan Silver footed bowls, Leonard Silver fluted dishes, or Paul Revere reproduction bowls in silver plate.
Interesting Facts
The 'bleeding' effect, where the copper or brass base shows through silver plate, was actually recreated intentionally in 'Old Sheffield Plate' to show age, but in mid-century EPNS, it is generally considered a sign of excessive polishing.