International Silver Company Silver Plate Presentation Bowl or Compote Base
Hollowware (Bowl or Compote) · International Silver Company, based in Meriden, Connecticut. Founded in 1898 through the merger of many independent New England silversmiths, it became the largest silver company in the world during the 20th century.
Pattern: Standard Production Model 914, various pattern associations. This specific model number often corresponds to mid-century serving pieces produced for mass-market availability.
Type
Hollowware (Bowl or Compote)
Maker
International Silver Company, based in Meriden, Connecticut. Founded in 1898 through the merger of many independent New England silversmiths, it became the largest silver company in the world during the 20th century.
Material
Silver plate on base metal (likely copper or nickel silver). The absence of a 'Sterling' or '925' mark confirms it is electroplated; the 'Silver Co.' stamp without a purity indicator is a standard indicator for silver plate.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter of 6 to 8 inches for the base/bowl. Weight is typically substantial for its size due to the base metal composition, likely around 300 to 500 grams.
Description
An essential piece of American mid-century hollowware, this International Silver Co. item represents the era's transition toward clean, functional design accessible to the growing middle class. While the underside shown is utilitarian, it reveals the industrial heritage of Meriden's silversmithing legacy. The circular brushed texture on the base suggests a piece designed for frequent use and easy maintenance, finished with a high-quality electroplated silver coating.
Key Features
Distinctive 'International Silver Co.' cursive script; Model number '914' identification; Lathe centering indentation at the exact midpoint of the base; Spun metal construction lines.
Material & Composition
Silver plate on base metal (likely copper or nickel silver). The absence of a 'Sterling' or '925' mark confirms it is electroplated; the 'Silver Co.' stamp without a purity indicator is a standard indicator for silver plate.
Finish & Decoration
Polished finish with natural moderate tarnish. The photo shows the underside (base), which is plain. The top visual side likely features a smooth, reflective surface with a simple rolled or molded edge typical of mid-century aesthetics.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The stamp reads 'The International Silver Co.' in cursive script, followed by the model number '914'. Note the absence of the 'IS' diamond mark or 'Sterling' stamp, denoting a silver-plated line.
Construction Details
Machine-pressed and spun. Evidence of spinning marks is visible on the concentric circular surface of the base. The piece was likely mass-produced through industrial metal-forming processes.
Functional Features
Flat, stable base designed to hold a bowl or serve as a shallow dish. The central circular depression on the underside is a manufacturing 'centering' mark from the lathe.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - This appears to be a pedestal base or a stemless bowl without handles.
Craftsmanship Details
Reflects high-quality industrial manufacturing. The centering is precise and the stamp is clear, though it lacks the hand-chased details of the company's more expensive boutique lines.
Authentication Indicators
Markings are consistent with authentic International Silver Co. industrial production. The wear patterns follow the concentric spinning lines of the base, which is appropriate for a genuine vintage piece of this era.
Origin & Manufacturing
Meriden, Connecticut, USA. Manufactured in one of the central International Silver Co. factories which utilized high-efficiency electroplating techniques.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (c. 1940-1960). The simplified marking style and industrial construction are characteristic of post-WWII American hollowware.
Age Estimate
Circa 1945-1955. The specific typography of the maker's mark and the model number '914' align with production records from the mid-20th century.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of 'silver' in the American home. These plated pieces allowed families to maintain a formal dining aesthetic without the extreme cost of solid sterling silver.
Condition Notes
Good (Grade B). The surface shows moderate 'shelf wear' scratches and significant tarnish (sulfide buildup), appearing as dark spots and yellowish hues. No major dents or plating loss (bleeding) are visible in the photo.
Value Estimate
General market value between $15.00 and $35.00 USD. Value is hindered by the fact that it is silver plate rather than sterling, making its worth primarily decorative rather than based on metal content.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild silver cream (e.g., Wright's) using a soft cloth to remove the yellow tarnish. Avoid dipping solutions which can be too harsh for electroplate. Store in a tarnish-resistant bag to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Pieces
Similar to pieces by Oneida or Reed & Barton's plated lines. It is often confused with the 'Wilcox' or 'Rogers' lines, which were also brands owned by International Silver but usually carried their own specific logos.
Interesting Facts
The International Silver Company was responsible for the silver used on many famous 20th-century luxury liners and even produced specialized items for the U.S. military during WWII before returning to consumer goods.