Electroplated Silver Loving Cup Trophy or Sugar Bowl
Hollowware (Trophy Cup/Sugar Bowl) · Unknown mass-market manufacturer; typical of mid-20th-century silver-plate firms like Sheridan, Leonard, or Poole Silver Co.
Pattern: Generic Neoclassical Revivial with embossed 'Grape and Vine' or floral frieze.
Type
Hollowware (Trophy Cup/Sugar Bowl)
Maker
Unknown mass-market manufacturer; typical of mid-20th-century silver-plate firms like Sheridan, Leonard, or Poole Silver Co.
Material
Silver Plate (likely EPNS - Electroplated Nickel Silver or silver over copper/spelter). The bluish-grey tint and specific wear patterns suggest a non-precious base metal.
Dimensions
Standard individual size; approximately 4-5 inches in height. Lightweight compared to solid silver due to the thin gauge of the plated metal.
Description
A classic silver-plated trophy-style cup, often used as an open sugar bowl or a decorative 'loving cup.' It features a flared rim, a deep bowl, and a pedestal foot. A die-struck decorative band of florals provides a touch of traditional elegance, though the piece is intended for everyday decor rather than as a high-value collector's item.
Key Features
Machine-stamped decorative border, cast scroll handles, and a high-luster electroplated surface characteristic of mid-tier 20th-century hollowware.
Material & Composition
Silver Plate (likely EPNS - Electroplated Nickel Silver or silver over copper/spelter). The bluish-grey tint and specific wear patterns suggest a non-precious base metal.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish with a machine-embossed floral and scroll band around the rim. Features cast rococo-style scroll handles with thumb rests.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not visible in image; likely stamped on the bottom with 'Silverplate', 'EPNS', or a manufacturer's shield logo. The lack of standard sterling hallmarks (.925/Lion Passant) is consistent with its appearance.
Construction Details
Mass-produced/Machine-made. The body is likely spun on a lathe, with the cast handles attached using lead or silver solder (visible at the handle joints).
Functional Features
Open vessel with dual handles for gripping; weighted or flared pedestal base for stability.
Handle & Grip Details
Dual cast-metal handles with scroll motifs; evidence of crude finishing on the handle edges and visible solder points where they meet the body.
Craftsmanship Details
Low to moderate quality; machine-spun body with mass-cast handles. Solder joints are functional but not artistically blended.
Authentication Indicators
The 'Prix RDF' price tag of $3.50 is a primary indicator that the item is plated rather than sterling. The color of the metal has the cold, blue-white tone of chrome or thin silver plate rather than the warm glow of solid sterling.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely United States or Canada, produced for the retail giftware or trophies market.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (c. 1950-1970) Revival style, imitating much earlier Victorian or Georgian 'Loving Cup' silhouettes.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960. The price tag suggests a contemporary thrift or secondary market environment.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of luxury in the post-WWII era, where silver-plated items allowed middle-class households to emulate high-society dining traditions.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Visible surface scratches and ‘pitting’ typical of silver plate. Significant tarnish/oxidation in the crevices of the decorative band. The handle shows signs of 'bubbling' or plating wear.
Value Estimate
$5.00 - $15.00 USD. The $3.50 price tag on the item is consistent with current thrift market values for silver-plated hollowware with no specific maker pedigree.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild silver cream (e.g., Wright's). Avoid over-polishing as the silver layer is very thin and may expose the base metal ('bleeding'). Do not place in a dishwasher.
Similar Pieces
Sterling silver trophies by Tiffany or Gorham (which would be much heavier and hallmarked) or pewter versions by manufacturers like Woodbury.
Interesting Facts
Items like this were prolific wedding and anniversary gifts in the mid-20th century, meant to provide the look of 'fine silver' at a fraction of the cost.