International Silver Co. Pierced Sterling Silver Bonbon Dish
Hollowware (Bonbon Dish/Nut Dish) · International Silver Company (Meriden, Connecticut), a major American conglomerate formed in 1898 through the merger of many independent silversmiths.
Pattern: Unspecified geometric pierced pattern, likely part of an early 20th-century decorative hollowware line.
Type
Hollowware (Bonbon Dish/Nut Dish)
Maker
International Silver Company (Meriden, Connecticut), a major American conglomerate formed in 1898 through the merger of many independent silversmiths.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 fineness) as indicated by the central stamp.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter of 6-7 inches (15-18 cm); weight likely between 80 to 120 grams (2.5 to 3.8 troy ounces).
Description
A delicate and classically styled American sterling silver bonbon dish. The piece features three concentric bands of intricate openwork piercing that graduate in complexity toward the rim. The central well is plain, designed to catch the light and contrast with the ornate border. This type of piece was a staple of the refined American tea table or parlor, used to serve small sweets or petit fours during social gatherings.
Key Features
Lacy geometric piercing, central hallmark stamp on the interior well, and light-weight sterling construction.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 fineness) as indicated by the central stamp.
Finish & Decoration
Bright-cut finish with intricate die-cut openwork (piercing) featuring scroll, petal, and geometric motifs; includes a central circular well polished to a high luster with evidence of hand-chased accents.
Hallmarks & Stamps
A central circular stamp containing 'STERLING', the International Silver Co. mark (often an 'I', 'S', and 'Co' or a knight's head for certain sub-brands), and a pattern/model number such as 'B67'.
Construction Details
Precision die-struck body with mechanically stamped piercing; the rim is likely reinforced or rolled for structural stability.
Functional Features
Flat-bottomed well for serving small candies or nuts; the openwork serves an aesthetic purpose while reducing the weight of the metal.
Handle & Grip Details
No dedicated handles; designed as a low-profile dish for finger-tip lifting via the rim.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial craftsmanship; the symmetry of the die-cut pattern is perfect, showing the advancement of machine-assisted silver production at the turn of the century.
Authentication Indicators
The 'STERLING' stamp indicates US origin and silver purity; wear patterns are consistent with soft sterling silver; the precision of the piercing matches industrial production methods of the era.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States; manufactured in Meriden, Connecticut, historically known as the 'Silver City' due to the density of manufacturing in that region.
Era & Period
Late Victorian/Early Edwardian (approx. 1900-1920); characterized by the heavy use of filigree-style piercing popular in the early 20th century.
Age Estimate
Circa 1900-1915; based on the specific aesthetic of the geometric piercing and the hallmark style of the International Silver conglomerate.
Cultural Significance
Represents the formalization of American dining etiquette in the early 1900s, where specific dishes were required for every course, including the 'bonbon course' during social visits.
Condition Notes
Good antique condition. The central well shows heavy surface scratching and 'pocking' (small dents or pitting) consistent with frequent use and contact with utensils or hard candies. Tarnish is visible in the recessed decorative areas. Structurally sound.
Value Estimate
$75.00 - $150.00 USD, depending on the current market price of silver bullion and the specific collector demand for the pattern.
Care & Maintenance
Hand polish with a high-quality cream like Wright's Silver Cream. Avoid dips as they can strip the patina in the pierced crevices. Use a soft-bristled horsehair brush to clean the cut-outs.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany & Co. or Gorham Manufacturing pierced dishes; Tiffany examples would typically be heavier and feature hand-pierced rather than die-cut work.
Interesting Facts
The International Silver Company was responsible for the popularity of silver in middle-class American homes, as they mastered the balance between high-quality craftsmanship and efficient production.