International Silver Co. Silver-Plated Champagne/Wine Cooler with Repoussé Floral Rim
Hollowware (Champagne/Wine Cooler) · International Silver Co. (formed 1898 in Meriden, CT). A conglomerate of leading American silversmiths including Rogers Bros and Meriden Britannia. Known for high-volume commercial production and hotel-grade silver plate.
Pattern: Repoussé Floral Border style, common in mid-20th-century American silver-plate lines used in hospitality and domestic settings.
Type
Hollowware (Champagne/Wine Cooler)
Maker
International Silver Co. (formed 1898 in Meriden, CT). A conglomerate of leading American silversmiths including Rogers Bros and Meriden Britannia. Known for high-volume commercial production and hotel-grade silver plate.
Material
Electroplated Nickel Silver (EPNS) or Silver Plate over Copper/Brass. The presence of significant blue/black tarnish without the white-grey sheen of sterling suggests commercial plating.
Dimensions
Estimated 9 to 11 inches in height and 8 to 9 inches in diameter at the rim. Weight is approximately 1.5-2.5 kg due to thick base metal and size.
Description
An impressive silver-plated champagne cooler featuring a classic urn shape. The wide, flared mouth is adorned with a lush border of embossed flowers and scrolling leaves, providing a grand visual contrast to the sleek, unadorned central cylinder. Its robust base and ornate handles make it a staple for elegant entertaining and celebrations.
Key Features
Heavy floral/foliate rim, double-scroll acanthus handles, and circular stepped pedestal base. Highly reflective surface with traditional proportions.
Material & Composition
Electroplated Nickel Silver (EPNS) or Silver Plate over Copper/Brass. The presence of significant blue/black tarnish without the white-grey sheen of sterling suggests commercial plating.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish on the body with a heavily decorated repoussé or die-stamped floral and foliate rim. Features a gadrooned transition and scroll-style handles with acanthus leaf motifs.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Likely stamped on base with 'IS', 'International Silver Co.', or 'EPNS'. May include a catalog or design number like '1504'. No sterling (.925) marks are visible in the finish quality.
Construction Details
Spun body with die-stamped decorative rim soldered to the top. Handles are hollow cast and applied with solder. Foot is made of several spun-metal components joined together.
Functional Features
Insulated or wide-mouth design for ice containment; flared rim for easy bottle retrieval; sturdy side handles for transport when heavy and wet.
Handle & Grip Details
Cast metal (likely white metal alloy) with silver plating, featuring an ergonomic upward-curving scroll shape with thumb rests for secure grip.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-manufactured components with manual soldering. Standard commercial quality with die-work representing traditional hand-chased motifs.
Authentication Indicators
Mass-produced assembly marks at the base of handles and the lack of a 'lion passant' or '925' mark. The tarnish pattern is characteristic of commercial-grade silver plate.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States, primarily the Meriden/Waterbury area of Connecticut, which was the silver-plate manufacturing capital of the world.
Era & Period
Mid-Century / Neo-Victorian Revival (c. 1940-1960). While mimicking 19th-century designs, the crispness and assembly point toward mass production of the post-war era.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1970. The design reflects mid-century formal dining aesthetics common in American households and country clubs.
Cultural Significance
A symbol of domestic luxury and formal hospitality in mid-century America, representing the 'aspiring middle class' desire for sterling-style elegance at a plate price point.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Significant tarnish/oxidation (dark spotting and bluish cast) across the surface. Potential 'burning' of the plate where base metal shows through on high-relief areas of the flowers. No visible large dents.
Value Estimate
$40 - $120 USD. Value is driven by utility and decorative appeal rather than metal content; tarnish condition significantly impacts the price.
Care & Maintenance
Polish with a gentle non-abrasive cream like Wright's Silver Cream. Avoid dips as they can strip the thin plating. Dry thoroughly after use to prevent corrosion from condensation.
Similar Pieces
Sheffield Plate coolers (higher value, copper core visible), Gorham Chantilly plated coolers, or Reed & Barton Winthrop coolers.
Interesting Facts
International Silver Co. provided much of the silver used in grand American hotels and on luxury Trans-Atlantic ocean liners during the early to mid-20th century.