International Silver Co. Art Deco Pattern Silverplate Teaspoon
Flatware (Teaspoon) · International Silver Co. (IS), Meriden, Connecticut. Formed in 1898 from several smaller silver firms, the company became the largest manufacturer of silver and silverplate in the world during the early 20th century.
Pattern: Likely a 1930s-1940s Art Deco geometric pattern produced for the commercial or retail market. Similar to patterns by the Roger Bros. or Holmes & Edwards divisions.
Type
Flatware (Teaspoon)
Maker
International Silver Co. (IS), Meriden, Connecticut. Formed in 1898 from several smaller silver firms, the company became the largest manufacturer of silver and silverplate in the world during the early 20th century.
Material
Silverplate over a base metal (typically nickel silver or brass). Features electroplated silver (EPNS) which provides the appearance of sterling at a more accessible price point.
Dimensions
Standard teaspoon length, approximately 6.0 to 6.25 inches. Weight is approximately 30-35 grams, heavier than sterling due to the dense base metal alloy.
Description
This piece is a classic example of American mid-century utility flatware. The teaspoon features a gracefully elongated bowl and a handle that celebrates the industrial beauty of the Art Deco movement. With sharp geometric lines and a subtle diamond motif at the tip, it represents the transition from the ornate Victorian styles to the functional minimalism of the modern era. While silverplated, its durability and classic silhouette make it a staple of Depression-era table service.
Key Features
Clipped corner terminal, geometric diamond cartouche, vertical tapering handle, and lack of 'Sterling' mark indicating high-quality commercial silverplate.
Material & Composition
Silverplate over a base metal (typically nickel silver or brass). Features electroplated silver (EPNS) which provides the appearance of sterling at a more accessible price point.
Finish & Decoration
Polished mirror finish on the bowl with a stamped geometric Art Deco terminal. The handle features clean, tapering lines and an etched/stamped diamond-shaped cartouche at the tip with stylized scroll accents.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Typically found on the reverse: 'IS' or 'International Silver Co.' and often 'Sectional' or 'A1' indicating plating quality and reinforcement at wear points. No sterling hallmarks are visible.
Construction Details
Machine-made using die-striking techniques where the pattern and form are stamped from a long sheet of metal before being trimmed and electroplated.
Functional Features
Standard oval bowl for stirring and measuring; the handle is designed with a flared terminal to provide better balance during use.
Handle & Grip Details
Integrated solid metal handle; tapered design with a clipped corner at the terminal typical of the 1930s streamline aesthetic.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision industrial craftsmanship. The symmetry is perfect and the stamping is crisp, indicating high-quality commercial dies used during a peak period for the International Silver factory.
Authentication Indicators
The lack of hallmark symbols (lion, anchor, etc.) and the presence of typical machine-stamped patterns indicate mass-produced American silverplate of the mid-20th century.
Origin & Manufacturing
USA, manufactured in Connecticut, the historic heart of the American silverplate industry.
Era & Period
Art Deco / Machine Age (c. 1925-1945). The design emphasizes geometric symmetry and vertical lines characteristic of the 'Streamline Moderne' sub-style.
Age Estimate
Circa 1935-1948 based on the geometric handle shape and the high-relief stamping technique.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of luxury; silverplating allowed middle-class families in the mid-20th century to own sophisticated dining sets that mimicked the style of high-end sterling services.
Condition Notes
Good overall condition. Displays light surface scratching and 'heel wear' on the back of the bowl where it rests on the table. Tarnish is light but present in the crevices of the terminal decoration.
Value Estimate
$2.00 - $8.00 per piece. Value is primarily functional rather than intrinsic metal value, though full sets in good condition command higher premiums in the vintage market.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild silver cream. Avoid abrasive cleaners or 'dips' which can strip the thin silver layer and reveal the yellowish base metal beneath (known as 'bleeding'). Store in a felt roll.
Similar Pieces
Oneida Community 'Coronation' (more floral), Gorham 'Deco' (more architectural), or Tiffany 'Century' (sterling alternative).
Interesting Facts
International Silver Co. was so successful that they famously provided massive flatware sets for the ocean liners and luxury hotels of the 1930s, helping to cement the Art Deco style in the public consciousness.