International Silver Co. 'Rose' Pattern Silver-Plated Luncheon Fork
Flatware - Luncheon Fork · International Silver Co. (IS), a major American conglomerate formed in 1898 in Meriden, CT, which absorbed many notable silversmiths including Rogers and Holmes & Edwards.
Pattern: Rose Pattern; specifically associated with various plated lines by International Silver. Pattern features a scrolled edge with rose blossoms at the terminal and shoulder.
Type
Flatware - Luncheon Fork
Maker
International Silver Co. (IS), a major American conglomerate formed in 1898 in Meriden, CT, which absorbed many notable silversmiths including Rogers and Holmes & Edwards.
Material
Silver Plate (EPNS - Electroplated Nickel Silver). Base metal is likely a copper-nickel-zinc alloy with a thin electro-deposited layer of fine silver.
Dimensions
Length: Approximately 7.25 inches (18.4 cm); Weight: Approximately 45-55 grams. Standard luncheon size, slightly smaller than a traditional dinner fork.
Description
An quintessential example of mid-century American silver-plated flatware. This luncheon fork features the romantic 'Rose' motif, characterized by delicate blossoms and sweeping scrolls that provide a sense of traditional elegance for a middle-class table. The piece demonstrates the high-volume manufacturing capabilities of International Silver.
Key Features
Deeply recessed rose motif at the tip, scrollwork borders, and the prominent matte/brushed texture in the center of the handle which hides scratches from daily use.
Material & Composition
Silver Plate (EPNS - Electroplated Nickel Silver). Base metal is likely a copper-nickel-zinc alloy with a thin electro-deposited layer of fine silver.
Finish & Decoration
Satin-to-mirror finish with low-relief floral decoration. Features a terminal rose motif, scrollwork along the handle edges, and a textured background within the handle panels. Rococo Revival influence.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually stamped on the reverse with 'IS', 'International Silver', or line-specific marks such as 'Rogers & Bro' or 'DeepSilver'. No Sterling marks are visible, confirming it is silver plate.
Construction Details
Machine-stamped/die-struck from sheet metal. The tines are cut and finished by machine, and the handle decoration is pressed into the metal using high-pressure dies.
Functional Features
Four-tine design for multi-purpose dining. Standard slightly curved profile for ergonomic lifting of food. No specialized features like a notched pastry tine.
Handle & Grip Details
Solid metal handle (not hollow), integrated as a single piece with the head. Slightly flared terminal for better grip and surface area for decoration.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial quality craftsmanship. Consistent symmetry and clean die-striking indicate high-quality factory production, though it lacks the hand-finishing found in luxury sterling pieces.
Authentication Indicators
Lack of 'Sterling' or '.925' marks; typical thickness of mass-produced mid-century plated ware; Die-struck detail depth; characteristic 'IS' style handle shape.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States; likely manufactured in the Meriden or Wallingford, Connecticut factories of International Silver Co.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (Post-WWII). The floral-scroll aesthetic was highly popular in the 1940s-1960s as part of the suburban American 'Sunday Best' dining culture.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1965. Based on the pattern style and the visible wear patterns consistent with mid-century mass-produced plating.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of luxury in post-war America, where ornate dining sets became accessible to the growing middle class through department store catalogs and wedding registries.
Condition Notes
Good condition. Shows visible surface scratches and minor 'pitting' or dark spotting on the handle, which may indicate 'plate loss' where the base metal is beginning to react with oxygen (tarnish/corrosion).
Value Estimate
$2 - $8 USD. As a single plated fork in a common pattern, its value is primarily functional or as a replacement piece for an existing set rather than for bullion or investment.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with mild soap and water. Use a gentle silver cream like Wright's if tarnish appears. Avoid abrasive scrubbing which can strip the thin silver plating and reveal the yellow/dull base metal.
Similar Pieces
Oneida 'Damask Rose' (Sterling), Gorham 'Strasbourg' (Sterling), or various Rogers 'Exquisite' plated patterns. The main difference is the depth of detail and the metal purity marks.
Interesting Facts
International Silver Co. was once the largest manufacturer of silverware in the world. Their plated lines allowed households to simulate the look of sterling silver at a fraction of the cost.