International Silver Company 'DeepSilver' Silverplated Flatware, Orleans Pattern
Flatware (Likely a Serving Spoon or Fork handle segment) · International Silver Co. (IS), Meriden, Connecticut. Founded in 1898 through the merger of multiple independent silversmiths.
Pattern: Orleans pattern; introduced in 1957. Part of the 'DeepSilver' premium silverplate line.
Type
Flatware (Likely a Serving Spoon or Fork handle segment)
Maker
International Silver Co. (IS), Meriden, Connecticut. Founded in 1898 through the merger of multiple independent silversmiths.
Material
DeepSilver silverplate (EPNS). High-grade silver electroplate over a base metal (nickel silver), featuring 'weighted' or reinforced silver deposits at points of highest wear.
Dimensions
Standard handle width approx 2.5cm. Weight depends on form (spoon vs fork), typically ranging 50g-100g for single service pieces.
Description
A graceful example of mid-20th-century Americana, the Orleans pattern by International Silver captures the elegance of French Rococo design tailored for the modern home. The piece features a lush arrangement of scrolls and flowers trailing down the handle shank.
Key Features
Deep relief floral bunches at the mid-handle and a crowned fleur-de-lis motif at the crown. Distinguished by the 'DeepSilver' stamp which implies a thicker silver layer than standard plate.
Material & Composition
DeepSilver silverplate (EPNS). High-grade silver electroplate over a base metal (nickel silver), featuring 'weighted' or reinforced silver deposits at points of highest wear.
Finish & Decoration
Mirror polish with oxidized recesses. Mid-century Rococo Revival style featuring scrolling foliates, floral clusters, and a stylized fleur-de-lis tip.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Expected marks on reverse: 'IS', 'International DeepSilver', or 'Orleans'. These marks differentiate the premium plate from standard triple plate.
Construction Details
Die-struck/machine-pressed. The pattern is stamped with high-pressure steel dies to create crisp, deep relief typical of the 1950s manufacturing standards.
Functional Features
Flared spatulate handle for ergonomic grip; designed for high-frequency daily use due to the reinforced 'DeepSilver' plating thickness.
Handle & Grip Details
Solid metal core with thick silver electroplating. Shaped in a classic fiddle-back silhouette with scrolling edges.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-manufactured with high-quality die work. The symmetry and detail are consistent with high-volume industrial silversmithing of the 1950s.
Authentication Indicators
The pattern is a documented International Silver design. Wear patterns are consistent with electroplated nickel silver rather than solid sterling.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States; Meriden, Connecticut, historically known as 'Silver City' for its massive silver manufacturing output.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (Late 1950s). Historical context: Post-WWII era of formal dining and the rise of high-quality silver substitutes for the middle class.
Age Estimate
Circa 1957-1965. Based on pattern release date and the specific 'DeepSilver' branding era.
Cultural Significance
Represents the suburban aspiration of the 1950s, where high-quality silverplate allowed families to set a 'grand table' without the extreme cost of sterling.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Visible 'bleeding' or copper-toned oxidation near the crown suggests the silver layer is thinning or pitted. Moderate surface scratches and tarnish in crevices.
Value Estimate
$5 - $15 USD. Value is nominal as a single piece of silverplate; sets hold higher collective value for replacement markets.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild silver cream (Wright's). Avoid abrasive scrubbers which will strip the remaining silver layer and expose the base metal further.
Similar Pieces
Wallace 'Grand Baroque' (similar Rococo style but usually Sterling); Oneida 'Damask Rose' (floral theme but different silhouette).
Interesting Facts
The 'DeepSilver' line was marketed as 'silverplate that will last a lifetime' because it included extra silver inlays at the touch-points of the bowls and tines.