Towle Old Master Pattern Sterling Silver Handle Sharpening Steel
Flatware (Serving Piece, Specifically a Carving Accessory) · Towle Silversmiths (founded in 1690 by William Moulton II, established as Towle in 1882 in Newburyport, MA). Renowned for quality American sterling flatware.
Pattern: Old Master; introduced in 1942. This is one of the most successful and long-running American silver patterns, still in production today.
Type
Flatware (Serving Piece, Specifically a Carving Accessory)
Maker
Towle Silversmiths (founded in 1690 by William Moulton II, established as Towle in 1882 in Newburyport, MA). Renowned for quality American sterling flatware.
Material
Sterling silver handle (.925 purity) with a carbon steel or stainless steel rod (the 'steel'). The handle is hollow and likely filled with a resin or cement to secure the rod.
Dimensions
Total length approximately 12-14 inches; handle length roughly 4 inches. Weight is mainly in the steel rod; the sterling portion is typically 20-30 grams of silver content.
Description
A classic accessory for the formal dining table, this Towle Old Master sharpening steel features the iconic scrolls and beads that define American high-style flatware. Designed to accompany a carving knife and fork, it reflects a mid-century elegance where every utensil served a specific aesthetic and functional role.
Key Features
Distinguished by the Old Master 'Shell and Scroll' terminal and the specific winged protective guard unique to carving steels.
Material & Composition
Sterling silver handle (.925 purity) with a carbon steel or stainless steel rod (the 'steel'). The handle is hollow and likely filled with a resin or cement to secure the rod.
Finish & Decoration
Polished silver with oxidized recesses. Features heavy beading, scrolls, and a stylized shell at the terminal in the Rococo Revival style. A Gothic-style monogram 'W' is engraved on the front cartouche.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually stamped 'TOWLE STERLING' and the Towle 'T' inside a lion hallmark on the side or ferrule of the handle. The steel rod may have maker marks such as 'Made in USA' or 'Stainless'.
Construction Details
Hollow-handle construction. The sterling handle is die-struck in two halves and soldered together. The steel rod is inserted into a bolster and secured with adhesive/filler.
Functional Features
Tapered sharpening rod with fine ridges for realigning knife edges; integrated winged finger guard between the handle and steel for safety during use.
Handle & Grip Details
Sterling silver weighted handle; contoured for grip. The joint between the sterling ferrule and the steel guard appears tight but shows minor oxidation common in older carving sets.
Craftsmanship Details
Features excellent die-work with deep, legible patterns. The soldering at the seam is invisible, indicating high-quality factory finishing.
Authentication Indicators
Pattern match to Towle archives is exact. The quality of the beading and the specific 'W' monogram engraving are consistent with factory or high-end retail work from the period.
Origin & Manufacturing
Newburyport, Massachusetts, United States. Manufactured using mass-production die-striking methods typical of large American silver firms.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (Post-1942). The design is Rococo Revival, popular in the Mid-Century period for formal American dining.
Age Estimate
Circa 1945-1965 based on the crispness of the pattern and the style of the engraved monogram.
Cultural Significance
Represents the peak of American formal dining culture where 'Sunday Best' carving sets were considered essential wedding gifts and family heirlooms.
Condition Notes
Very Good. The silver handle shows light surface scratches and minor tarnish. The steel rod shows some darkening/patina which is normal for carbon steel; no significant rust or pitting visible.
Value Estimate
$75.00 - $125.00 USD, depending on the current spot price of silver and buyer demand for the specific monogram.
Care & Maintenance
Clean handle with silver cream; do not soak in water as it can loosen the handle filler. Wipe the steel rod with a damp cloth and dry immediately; light oiling of the rod prevents rust.
Similar Pieces
Wallace 'Grand Baroque' Steel (more ornate), Gorham 'Chantilly' Steel (more slender/floral). Each belongs to the 'Big Five' American patterns.
Interesting Facts
The Old Master pattern was designed by Harold Norgrove and was so popular it helped Towle survive the transition of the silver market through the mid-20th century.