Dutch Enamel Souvenir Spoon, Royal Palace (Koninklijk Paleis) Amsterdam Pattern
Flatware (Souvenir Spoon / Demitasse Spoon) · Likely a Dutch silversmith such as Zilverstad or Herbert Hooijkaas, known for high-quality silver tourist souvenirs in the mid-20th century.
Pattern: Enamel Shield series featuring the 'Kon. Paleis Amsterdam' (Royal Palace Amsterdam).
Type
Flatware (Souvenir Spoon / Demitasse Spoon)
Maker
Likely a Dutch silversmith such as Zilverstad or Herbert Hooijkaas, known for high-quality silver tourist souvenirs in the mid-20th century.
Material
Likely 833 or 925 Silver. Typical Dutch silver standards include second-grade silver (.833 fineness). Includes blue, gold, and white enamel.
Dimensions
Approximately 4.5 to 5 inches (11-13 cm) in length. Estimated weight: 10-15 grams.
Description
A charming example of mid-20th century European travel memorabilia, this silver spoon celebrates the Royal Palace of Amsterdam. The finial features a vibrant enamel shield framed by scrolled acanthus leaves, capturing the palace's Neoclassical facade under a bright blue sky. The twisted stem adds a touch of traditional Dutch silversmithing flair, leading to a perfectly polished oval bowl.
Key Features
Architectural enamel shield finial, 'Amsterdam' inscription, twisted stem, and diminutive demitasse size.
Material & Composition
Likely 833 or 925 Silver. Typical Dutch silver standards include second-grade silver (.833 fineness). Includes blue, gold, and white enamel.
Finish & Decoration
Polished silver with a twisted-rope stem and an architectural enamel finial (shield). The shield features a detailed depiction of the Royal Palace on Dam Square with blue sky enamel and parcel-gilt accents.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Expected marks on the reverse: a sword (Dutch small silver mark), a numeric fineness (833 or 925), and a silversmith's initials in a rectangle.
Construction Details
Die-struck bowl and shield finial, machine-twisted stem, with hand-applied vitreous enamel (cloisonné or champlevé style).
Functional Features
Small egg-shaped bowl for tea or coffee service; ornamental finial designed for display rather than ergonomic heavy use.
Handle & Grip Details
Hollow-cast or die-struck twisted wire handle with a cartouche-shaped shield finial. The connection is soldered at the neck and top.
Craftsmanship Details
Effective use of die-striking and enameling. The quality is commercial-grade silver production—well-executed but produced in quantity to meet tourist demand.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic Dutch twisted handle design, clear enamel detail, and typical sword hallmark placement on the neck or bowl back (though not visible in the provided angle).
Origin & Manufacturing
The Netherlands (Holland), likely manufactured in Schoonhoven (the Dutch silver city) for the Amsterdam tourist market.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern / Post-War Tourism Era (1950s-1970s). Use of 'Kon. Paleis' abbreviation is common in 20th-century Dutch souvenirs.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1975. Based on the style of the enamel and the mechanical construction of the twisted handle.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the post-WWII boom in international tourism and the Dutch tradition of creating specialized silver tools for coffee and tea culture.
Condition Notes
Excellent. Enamel appears intact without visible chips or 'spidering.' Silver shows light surface scratches consistent with age and gentle handling. No visible repairs.
Value Estimate
$25.00 - $55.00 USD. Value is driven by the silver content and the condition of the enamel, which is highly sought by topographical souvenir collectors.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a non-abrasive silver cream; avoid silver 'dips' which can damage the organic components of the enamel. Store in a soft cloth to avoid scratching the glass-like enamel surface.
Similar Pieces
Generic silver-plate souvenir spoons; German '800' silver enamel spoons; contemporary mass-produced pewter replicas.
Interesting Facts
Souvenir spoons became a global craze in the late 19th century; by the 1950s, enamel versions like this were the most popular 'attainable luxury' gift for travelers visiting European capitals.