Unattributed Repoussé Floral Pattern Silver-Plated Soup Ladle with Spiral Handle
Flatware - Serving Piece (Soup Ladle) · Unidentified Maker or Workshop, likely originating from a regional manufacturer specializing in decorative domestic silver plate (e.g., India or similar traditional metalworking regions).
Pattern: Unregistered Floral Scroll Pattern, characterized by continuous cascading floral motifs intertwined with diagonal bands, distinct from standard Western flatware patterns.
Type
Flatware - Serving Piece (Soup Ladle)
Maker
Unidentified Maker or Workshop, likely originating from a regional manufacturer specializing in decorative domestic silver plate (e.g., India or similar traditional metalworking regions).
Material
Silver-Plated Base Metal (likely brass, copper-nickel alloy, or EPNS - Electroplated Nickel Silver), evident from the bright reflective finish and subtle hints of base metal exposure typical of decorative plated items.
Dimensions
Estimated length approximately 28 to 32 cm (11 to 12.5 inches) with a bowl diameter of roughly 8 to 10 cm, conforming to a standard large serving soup ladle size.
Description
A striking and heavily ornamented soup ladle featuring a smooth, highly reflective bowl joined to a robust, cylindrical handle completely covered in intricate repoussé floral designs and diagonal ribbon motifs. A visible rivet secures the handle to the bowl neck, adding a utilitarian industrial touch to an otherwise ornate decorative serving piece.
Key Features
Distinctive heavily decorated spiral-banded floral handle, deep serving bowl, and visible structural pin at the neck joint.
Material & Composition
Silver-Plated Base Metal (likely brass, copper-nickel alloy, or EPNS - Electroplated Nickel Silver), evident from the bright reflective finish and subtle hints of base metal exposure typical of decorative plated items.
Finish & Decoration
High mirror polish on the bowl interior and exterior; deeply chased and repoussé floral decoration along the entire cylindrical handle, separated by raised diagonal bands.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not clearly visible in the provided image; typically located near the junction of the handle and bowl or on the reverse of the handle if marked.
Construction Details
Two-piece construction consisting of a formed and polished bowl securely attached to a cylindrical hollow or filled handle, held together via a visible mechanical pin or rivet near the neck.
Functional Features
Deep, rounded bowl designed for efficient portioning and serving of soups, stews, or gravies; long, textured cylindrical handle ensuring a secure, non-slip grip.
Handle & Grip Details
Thick, cylindrical handle made of the same silver-plated metal, featuring heavily textured all-over repoussé floral patterns and secured at the neck with a visible structural pin.
Craftsmanship Details
Combination of machine-formed bowl and hand-chased/repoussé handle decoration, demonstrating a blend of industrial forming and traditional surface ornamentation.
Authentication Indicators
Construction shows typical characteristics of mid-century decorative export metalware rather than high-end European or American sterling silver; inspection for maker stamps on the reverse is recommended.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely manufactured in regions with rich traditions of hand-chased metalware, such as India, the Middle East, or parts of Southeast Asia, geared toward export markets.
Era & Period
Mid to Late 20th Century (circa 1950-1980), bearing stylistic similarities to decorative export silverware and homeware produced during this period.
Age Estimate
Estimated to be 30 to 60 years old (c. 1960-1990), based on manufacturing style, surface finish, and construction assembly.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the global trade in decorative silver-plated tableware and the widespread appreciation for traditional hand-chased floral motifs in domestic serving utensils.
Condition Notes
Very Good vintage condition. The surface shows minor micro-scratches and slight tarnish appropriate for age and light use, with no major dents or structural damage observed.
Value Estimate
Estimated market value ranges between $25 and $75 USD, depending on exact weight, metal composition, and presence of maker's marks.
Care & Maintenance
Clean gently with a soft cloth and mild soapy water. Use non-abrasive silver polish sparingly if silver plate is thin to prevent exposing the base metal. Store in a dry environment.
Similar Pieces
Similar decorative silver-plated or brass-based serving ladles from Indian or Middle Eastern export markets featuring floral chasing.
Interesting Facts
Ladles with heavily ornamented, tactile handles were frequently created as decorative display items for formal dining tables or as popular global tourist souvenirs during the mid-20th century.