Late Victorian Silver Plate Reeded Fruit Bowl with Lion Masque Handles
Hollowware (Fruit Bowl/Centerpiece Bowl) · Unknown manufacturer, likely a mass-market British or American silver plate firm such as Sheridan, Benedict, or a Birmingham-based workshop in the late 19th century.
Pattern: Generic Neoclassical Revival / Georgian Style reeded pattern.
Type
Hollowware (Fruit Bowl/Centerpiece Bowl)
Maker
Unknown manufacturer, likely a mass-market British or American silver plate firm such as Sheridan, Benedict, or a Birmingham-based workshop in the late 19th century.
Material
Silver Plate on base metal (likely copper or white metal). Visible dark spots indicate significant wear to the plating (bleeding), exposing the oxidation of the base metal underneath.
Dimensions
Estimated 10-12 inches in diameter; approximately 4-5 inches in depth. Weight likely between 800-1200 grams depending on whether the base metal is lead-weighted.
Description
A decorative silver-plated footed bowl featuring a bold reeded rim that creates a radiating sunburst effect. The interior basin is tiered with concentric rings leading to a flat center. The piece is accented by two classically styled lion head mounts on the rim, giving it a regal, traditional appearance suitable for a dining table centerpiece.
Key Features
Heavy reeded 'scalloped' rim, tiered concentric interior, and the specific Regency-revival lion head cast mounts.
Material & Composition
Silver Plate on base metal (likely copper or white metal). Visible dark spots indicate significant wear to the plating (bleeding), exposing the oxidation of the base metal underneath.
Finish & Decoration
High polish silver finish with heavy reeding (lobbed design) on the rim; concentric circular stepping in the basin. Features two cast lion head masques as decorative handles or faux mounts.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not visible in the image. Would typically be found on the underside base, likely including 'EPNS' (Electroplated Nickel Silver) or a specific manufacturer's logo and catalogue number.
Construction Details
Machine-pressed body with cast decorative elements (lion heads) soldered to the rim. The concentric rings suggest a spinning or heavy die-striking process rather than hand-raising.
Functional Features
Wide, shallow basin designed for fruit or rolls; flared rim for ease of carrying; wide footed base for stability.
Handle & Grip Details
Two ornate cast lion head masques attached at the 3 and 9 o'clock positions on the rim. These are decorative 'lugs' rather than functional lifting handles.
Craftsmanship Details
Mass-produced industrial quality. The lion heads are common cast-molds used in high volumes. Some misalignment in the reeding suggests a secondary market manufacturer.
Authentication Indicators
The dark, almost black peeling areas are classic indicators of silver plate failure. Solid sterling silver would tarnish evenly but would not 'peel' or show a different colored metal underneath.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely produced in England (Birmingham or Sheffield) or the United States (Providence or Connecticut), centers of the silver-plating industry at the turn of the century.
Era & Period
Late Victorian to Early Edwardian (c. 1890-1915), reflecting a revival of earlier Georgian 'Reeded' and 'Lion Masque' motifs.
Age Estimate
Circa 1900-1920. The style is Edwardian Neoclassical, and the wear patterns suggest several decades of frequent polishing.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'democratization of luxury' during the industrial revolution, where middle-class households could afford grand, silver-looking centerpieces that mimicked the solid silver belonging to the aristocracy.
Condition Notes
Fair to Poor condition. Significant loss of silver plating (pitting and bleeding) is visible in the basin and along the interior rim edges. Several dark spots indicate corrosion or deep tarnish that has reached the base metal. Structural integrity appears intact, but the surface aesthetics are heavily compromised.
Value Estimate
$20 - $45 USD. The value is limited due to the severe 'plate wear' and lack of a prestige maker's mark.
Care & Maintenance
Gentle cleaning with a non-abrasive cream like Wright's Silver Cream. Due to the significant plate loss, avoid 'silver dips' which will accelerate the corrosion of the exposed base metal. Do not use for acidic foods (like citrus) as the base metal may react.
Similar Pieces
Solid sterling versions by Gorham or Tiffany (which would be much more valuable) or higher-quality 'Old Sheffield Plate' (OSP) which would show copper bleeding rather than white metal.
Interesting Facts
The lion head masque was a favorite motif of Paul Storr during the Regency period; this piece is a late-industrial homage to those high-luxury 18th-century designs.