Silver-Plated Pierced Footed Basket or Centerpiece Bowl with Floral Cast Feet
Hollowware (Compote / Pierced Basket / Footed Tray) · Unknown manufacturer, likely a mass-market or mid-20th-century metalware maker specializing in silver plate over steel.
Pattern: Unidentified floral and lattice openwork pattern with cast scroll feet.
Type
Hollowware (Compote / Pierced Basket / Footed Tray)
Maker
Unknown manufacturer, likely a mass-market or mid-20th-century metalware maker specializing in silver plate over steel.
Material
Silver-plated metal (EPNS or silver plate on steel base, indicated by the stamp "EP ON STEEL").
Dimensions
Estimated medium centerpiece size, roughly 20-30 cm across and 10-15 cm in height, weighing under 1000 grams.
Description
An elegant silver-plated footed basket featuring an intricate pierced lattice pattern around the body. The piece rests gracefully upon three heavily detailed, cast floral scroll feet which elevate the bowl and add a classic decorative touch. The combination of bright reflective silver plating and openwork creates a light, decorative aesthetic typical of mid-century dining table centerpieces.
Key Features
Pierced diamond lattice body, prominent cast floral cabriole feet, silver-plated steel base construction.
Material & Composition
Silver-plated metal (EPNS or silver plate on steel base, indicated by the stamp "EP ON STEEL").
Finish & Decoration
Polished silver-plated finish featuring pierced diamond lattice openwork along the basket body, accented with embossed floral and foliate borders and three cast cabriole-style feet decorated with floral motifs.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped text visible near the top of the foot attachment reading "EP ON STEEL" (Electro-Plated on Steel) along with "MADE IN [country]" partially visible.
Construction Details
Stamped sheet metal body with machine-pierced openwork lattice, joined with separately cast ornamental feet soldered or mechanically attached to the reinforced rim/base.
Functional Features
Openwork basket design intended for serving dry foods, decorative fruit displays, or floral arrangements.
Handle & Grip Details
No handles present; features three integrated cast scroll feet providing elevation and stability.
Craftsmanship Details
Combination of industrial machine-stamping and piercing with hand-assembled cast decorative feet. Typical quality for mid-century mass-produced decorative hollowware.
Authentication Indicators
The presence of the "EP ON STEEL" stamp clearly identifies it as a silver-plated item rather than solid sterling silver, authenticating it as a commercial reproduction of older Georgian or Victorian silver baskets.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely manufactured in the United States, England, or Japan for the global household decorative market.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (c. 1950-1970), reflecting traditional revival styles popular in domestic tableware.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950 to 1980, based on the "EP ON STEEL" composition stamp and manufacturing style.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of formal dining accessories, allowing mid-century households to display ornate table centerpieces previously reserved for the wealthy.
Condition Notes
Good overall condition with minor surface tarnish and light polishing marks. The silver plating appears intact with no immediate signs of base metal bleed-through on the high points visible.
Value Estimate
Low to moderate market value, typically ranging from $20 to $60 USD depending on exact size, maker, and local decorative demand.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild silver polishing cream and soft cloth. Avoid abrasive pads to preserve the thin electroplated silver layer over the steel core. Store in a dry environment.
Similar Pieces
Similar silver-plated compotes, baskets, and bowls produced by manufacturers like Oneida, F.B. Rogers, or international makers.
Interesting Facts
Items utilizing steel as a core base metal became increasingly popular in mid-20th-century production to provide greater durability and weight resistance compared to softer base metals like copper or brass.