International Silver Co. 'Frontenac' Pattern Sterling Silver Demitasse Spoon
Flatware - Demitasse Spoon · International Silver Company (merging brands like Meriden Britannia), USA. Founded in 1898, it became one of the world's largest silver manufacturers.
Pattern: Frontenac, introduced in 1903. This Art Nouveau pattern featuring lilies is highly collectible and currently out of production.
Type
Flatware - Demitasse Spoon
Maker
International Silver Company (merging brands like Meriden Britannia), USA. Founded in 1898, it became one of the world's largest silver manufacturers.
Material
Sterling Silver (solid .925 purity). This specific piece is all-metal construction with no mixed materials.
Dimensions
Standard demitasse size, approximately 4 to 4.5 inches in length; estimated weight 12-18 grams.
Description
An elegant example of American Art Nouveau flatware, this Frontenac demitasse spoon features the signature lily design that made the pattern a classic. The handle terminates in a beautiful floral spray, while the stem remains slender and balanced. The deep oxidation in the recesses of the pattern provides a striking contrast against the polished silver highlights.
Key Features
Distinctive Lily-of-the-Valley/Lily motifs; flared 'Frontenac' handle shape; antique monogram; high relief casting.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (solid .925 purity). This specific piece is all-metal construction with no mixed materials.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized Art Nouveau relief featuring a Lily motif. The piece shows characteristic floral chasing and a script monogram on the handle terminal.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Likely stamped 'STERLING' with the International Silver Co. 'IS' mark or a predecessor mark on the reverse of the stem.
Construction Details
Machine-stamped from a die (die-struck), then hand-finished and oxidized to highlight the depth of the floral pattern.
Functional Features
Small egg-shaped bowl designed for serving espresso or small cups of strong coffee; slender stem for delicate handling.
Handle & Grip Details
Solid sterling silver handle, flared at the terminal with a scrolled border and integrated lily design.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality die-striking typical of the Edwardian era. The crispness of the floral details indicates well-maintained factory dies during its production run.
Authentication Indicators
Pattern match to known 1903 catalogs; hallmark placement on the neck of the stem; wear patterns consistent with century-old flatware.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States, likely Meriden, Connecticut. Reflects the American industrial transition of high-quality silver manufacturing.
Era & Period
Art Nouveau (1890-1910). The pattern reflects the movement's obsession with fluid organic lines and botanical realism.
Age Estimate
Circa 1903-1915 based on the peak popularity of the pattern and its Art Nouveau characteristics.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the formal dining rituals of the early 20th century where specific spoons were required for every course, including the final coffee service.
Condition Notes
Good antique condition. Shows moderate tarnish and surface oxidation. Minor surface scratches consistent with use. No visible bowl thinning or structural cracks.
Value Estimate
$25 - $45 USD depending on current silver spot price and collector demand for this specific pattern.
Care & Maintenance
Hand wash with mild soap. Use a gentle silver paste like Wright's to highlight the raised design while leaving the dark oxidation in the deep crevices for contrast.
Similar Pieces
Wallace 'Iris', Georg Jensen 'Lily of the Valley', or Gorham 'Lily'. Most differ in the specific species of flower and the weight of the silver blank used.
Interesting Facts
The Frontenac pattern is often cited as one of the most beautiful floral patterns ever produced by a major American silver manufacturer.