Silver Plate Thistle Motif Pierced Bonbon Bowl
Hollowware (Bonbon or Nut Bowl) · Unmarked / Mass-market Manufacturer (common to American or British silver plate firms like Wm. Rogers or Benedict)
Pattern: Scottish Thistle Pierced Pattern
Type
Hollowware (Bonbon or Nut Bowl)
Maker
Unmarked / Mass-market Manufacturer (common to American or British silver plate firms like Wm. Rogers or Benedict)
Material
Silver Plate (likely Electroplated Nickel Silver)
Dimensions
Approximately 15-20 cm in diameter; weight approximately 150-250 grams (base metal weight)
Description
This is a classic mid-century silver-plated bonbon dish featuring a distinctive Scottish thistle motif. The bowl showcases six circular pierced medallions encircling the transition from well to rim, each depicting a stylized thistle. The scalloped rim is accented by a beaded border, adding a touch of traditional elegance to a mass-produced piece. The high-shine finish reflects its domestic utility as a tea-time accessory or vanity bowl.
Key Features
Six symmetrical thistle-themed pierce-work medallions and a scalloped beaded rim
Material & Composition
Silver Plate (likely Electroplated Nickel Silver)
Finish & Decoration
Mirror polish, machine-pierced openwork, stamped thistle medallions, and beaded 'bright-cut' style border
Hallmarks & Stamps
No visible hallmarks in image; likely stamped on base with 'Silver Plate,' 'EPNS,' or a manufacturer's mark
Construction Details
Mixed machine production; die-stamped body with machine-pierced decorative cutouts and rolled/applied beaded edges
Functional Features
Low-walled shallow bowl designed for small delicacies; pierced sides provide decorative aeration
Handle & Grip Details
None; piece is a standard low-profile bowl designed for tabletop use
Craftsmanship Details
Commercial grade; mass-produced using industrial die-stamping and chemical or mechanical piercing.
Authentication Indicators
Lack of sterling hallmarks and the visible 'bluish' tint of the tarnish suggests electroplated nickel silver rather than solid sterling. The uniform nature of the piercing indicates machine stamping rather than hand-sawing.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely North America or United Kingdom; industrial production line
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (Post-WWII era) with late Victorian revival influence
Age Estimate
Circa 1940-1960
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of luxury in the mid-20th century, where silver-plated items allowed middle-class households to emulate high-society dining traditions.
Condition Notes
Good to Fair. Visible tarnish and 'pitting' suggests silver layer wear (bleeding). Surface shows heavy micro-scratching consistent with aggressive cleaning. Some dark oxidation in crevices.
Value Estimate
$15 - $35 USD (Decorative value only; minimal intrinsic metal value)
Care & Maintenance
Mild silver cream (Wright's) applied with a soft sponge; avoid abrasive scrubbing as the silver plate is thin; dry thoroughly to prevent further pitting.
Similar Pieces
Gorham Thistle Sterling (differentiated by much higher weight and purity marks) or vintage English sterling pierced baskets (differentiated by date letters and assay marks).
Interesting Facts
The thistle is the national emblem of Scotland; pieces featuring this motif became highly popular as 'heritage' gifts during the mid-20th century Scottish diaspora.