Mid-Century Modern Iced Tea / Parfait Spoon
Flatware (Iced Tea Spoon) · Unknown manufacturer; possibly Oneida, Gorham, or International Silver based on the streamlined American mid-century aesthetic.
Pattern: Streamlined Art Deco / Mid-Century Modern geometric pattern; features a characteristic 'V' or chevron-tipped handle with a simple border line along the stem.
Type
Flatware (Iced Tea Spoon)
Maker
Unknown manufacturer; possibly Oneida, Gorham, or International Silver based on the streamlined American mid-century aesthetic.
Material
Likely Silver Plate (EPNS) or Stainless Steel, though high-end versions exist in Sterling Silver (.925). Lack of visible hallmarks in the image suggests a silver-plated utility piece.
Dimensions
Estimated length: 7.5 to 8.5 inches (standard for iced tea/long-handle spoons). Estimated weight: 25-35 grams.
Description
A classic example of mid-century American tableware, this iced tea spoon features an elegant, elongated stem and a geometric terminal. The design prioritizes clean lines and functionality, typical of the era's departure from ornate Victorian styles. Such pieces were staples of domestic entertainment in the mid-20th century.
Key Features
Distinguished by its 'V' shaped terminal tip, slender neck, and lack of floral or scroll-work ornamentation.
Material & Composition
Likely Silver Plate (EPNS) or Stainless Steel, though high-end versions exist in Sterling Silver (.925). Lack of visible hallmarks in the image suggests a silver-plated utility piece.
Finish & Decoration
Mirror polish finish with minimal ornamentation. Features a stepped or clipped corner at the terminal (handle end) with a single engraved line detail following the silhouette.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not visible in the photograph; typically found on the back of the neck or stem, likely reading 'IS', 'ROGERS', or 'STERLING'.
Construction Details
Machine-stamped or die-struck from a single sheet of metal with an elongated stem for functional reach.
Functional Features
Elongated handle designed specifically for stirring tall beverages or reaching the bottom of sundae/parfait glasses.
Handle & Grip Details
Flat-profile handle tapering toward the neck; flared terminal with geometric 'clipped' corners for grip and aesthetic style.
Craftsmanship Details
Uniform machine-stamped edges; clean lines; indicates industrial-age mass production with high quality control.
Authentication Indicators
The silhouette is consistent with mass-market American patterns. The darkening pattern suggests silver-plate oxidation rather than stainless steel rust.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely United States manufacturing, common in mass-market flatware production from Connecticut or New York regions.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (Post-War 1940s-1960s), transitioning from earlier Art Deco influences into simpler, functional silhouettes.
Age Estimate
Circa 1945–1955 based on the geometric terminal design and streamlined neck.
Cultural Significance
Represents the stabilization of the American middle-class 'hostess' culture where specialized utensils for tea and desserts were expected for social etiquette.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Visible tarnish and surface oxidation (dark spots) indicate it has been stored in a high-moisture environment without anti-tarnish protection.
Value Estimate
$2 - $10 (if silver plate); $25 - $45 (if sterling silver). Market value is primarily determined by brand name on the back.
Care & Maintenance
Hand wash with mild soap; use a specialized silver cream like Wright's for tarnish removal; store in a felt-lined chest or Pacific Silvercloth.
Similar Pieces
Oneida Community 'Morning Star' or International Silver 'Royal Danish' (though the latter is more ornate).
Interesting Facts
Iced tea spoons became a necessity in American households during the early 20th century as iced tea became the 'national beverage' during summer months and Prohibition.