S. Kirk & Son Sterling Silver Fluted Bowl, No. 402
Hollowware (Bowl/Compote) · S. Kirk & Son Inc., Baltimore, Maryland. Established in 1815, they are America's oldest silversmithing house, famous for introducing 'Baltimore Repoussé' and for their exceptional quality and heavy gauge silver.
Pattern: Pattern No. 402; a classic fluted and scalloped design. This pattern features vertical lobed fluting, reflecting a mid-20th-century transition between traditional repoussé and modern simplicity.
Type
Hollowware (Bowl/Compote)
Maker
S. Kirk & Son Inc., Baltimore, Maryland. Established in 1815, they are America's oldest silversmithing house, famous for introducing 'Baltimore Repoussé' and for their exceptional quality and heavy gauge silver.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). The piece is solid sterling silver throughout, with no base metals or non-silver additions visible.
Dimensions
Typically 6 to 9 inches in diameter depending on specific size variant; estimated weight between 250 to 500 grams (8-16 troy oz) based on Kirk's traditionally heavy gauge construction.
Description
A refined example of Baltimore silver, this Kirk bowl moves away from the company's dense floral repoussé toward a graceful, fluted geometry. The piece features deep, rhythmic lobes that catch the light, terminating in a gently scalloped rim. It embodies the high-quality craftsmanship of America's longest-standing silver dynasty.
Key Features
Deeply struck 'S. KIRK & SON INC' mark, substantial silver weight, and the distinctive '402' design number which identifies this specific fluted form.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). The piece is solid sterling silver throughout, with no base metals or non-silver additions visible.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish with vertical fluted lobes and a scalloped rim. The design utilizes light and shadow through radial fluting rather than applied floral motifs, characteristic of the firm's later, more architectural designs.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'S. KIRK & SON INC', 'STERLING', and '402'. The 'INC' designation in the maker's mark indicates a production date after the firm incorporated in 1924 and before it was acquired by Stieff in 1979.
Construction Details
Spun and die-struck construction with hand-finished fluting. The base shows evidence of a traditional soldered foot or a deeply raised central well.
Functional Features
Multipurpose serving bowl suitable for fruit, bread, or candies. The fluted walls provide structural rigidity and an elegant aesthetic.
Handle & Grip Details
None; footed or flat-bottomed bowl design meant for table display.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality die-work with excellent symmetry. The finishing is superior, with smooth interior surfaces and clean, unwarped edges despite the complex fluted shape.
Authentication Indicators
The crispness of the incised marks and the distinctive font used for '402' are consistent with genuine Kirk production. The gauge of silver visible at the rim suggests the appropriate density for sterling.
Origin & Manufacturing
Baltimore, Maryland, USA. Manufactured in the Kirk workshop, known for the highest standards of American silversmithing during the 20th century.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century / Post-Depression Era. While the company is known for Victorian styles, this fluted No. 402 model reflects the cleaner lines of the 1940s-1950s.
Age Estimate
Circa 1930-1950. The 'S. Kirk & Son Inc' mark was used consistently during this mid-century period.
Cultural Significance
Represents the prosperity of mid-century American dining culture. Kirk silver was a staple of high-society wedding registers and served as a symbol of domestic elegance for generations.
Condition Notes
Very Good. The image shows some light surface oxidation/tarnish in the recesses of the fluting and minor micro-scratching consistent with age. No evidence of major dents or repairs.
Value Estimate
$350 - $650 USD depending on exact size and current silver spot prices. Kirk hollowware holds a premium due to the brand's prestige and the sheer weight of the metal used.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a high-quality paste like Wright's Silver Cream. Avoid chemical dips which can strip the desirable patina from the recessed flutes. Store in Pacific Silvercloth to prevent tarnish.
Similar Pieces
Kirk Repoussé bowls (which feature flowers), Stieff fluted bowls, or Gorham 'Chantilly' hollowware. The Kirk 402 is specifically sought for its simpler, less ornate aesthetic compared to their floral lines.
Interesting Facts
S. Kirk & Son was the first company in the United States to produce the elaborate floral style now known globally as 'Baltimore Silver.' The company served many notable clients, including the White House and the Marquis de Lafayette.