Mappin & Webb Princes Plate Hollowware
Hollowware (likely a Bowl, Tray, or specialized Service Piece) · Mappin & Webb, London and Sheffield. Founded in 1775, they are historically significant silversmiths and Royal Warrant holders, known for high-quality production and luxury goods.
Pattern: Princes Plate collection, a proprietary high-grade silver plate line introduced in the late 19th century.
Type
Hollowware (likely a Bowl, Tray, or specialized Service Piece)
Maker
Mappin & Webb, London and Sheffield. Founded in 1775, they are historically significant silversmiths and Royal Warrant holders, known for high-quality production and luxury goods.
Material
Princes Plate, a high-quality electroplated nickel silver (EPNS). Unlike standard plating, it was triple-plated to ensure durability and resistance to wear.
Dimensions
Standard hollowware dimensions; weight is typical for heavy-gauge nickel silver base metal, providing a substantial feel compared to lightweight modern pieces.
Description
This piece represents the apex of British plated silver. Mappin & Webb’s Princes Plate was marketed as being 'as a matter of fact, better than sterling silver' for daily use, offering the luxury appearance of solid silver with much higher durability.
Key Features
The 'Princes Plate' proprietary mark and the specific four-digit catalog/model number '3557' used for inventory and re-ordering.
Material & Composition
Princes Plate, a high-quality electroplated nickel silver (EPNS). Unlike standard plating, it was triple-plated to ensure durability and resistance to wear.
Finish & Decoration
Mirror-polished surface with visible circular polishing grains. The decoration level is likely minimal or classic, typical of hotel-grade or fine domestic service items.
Hallmarks & Stamps
A lozenge (diamond) shape containing the stylized 'M&W' initials and a small lion or sun-burst motif; the letters 'W' and 'A' potentially signifying Sheffield manufacture and quality grade; and the production number '3557'.
Construction Details
Machine-pressed or spun from a sheet of nickel silver, followed by high-immersion electroplating. The interior shows circular marks consistent with lathe finishing.
Functional Features
Likely features a bolstered rim or weighted base for stability in service, designed for durability in a high-use domestic or hospitality setting.
Handle & Grip Details
Information limited by image; typically Mappin & Webb hollowware features cast handles or finials attached via hard soldering.
Craftsmanship Details
Displays excellent industrial craftsmanship; the depth of the stamp and the smoothness of the interior curve indicate high-pressure machinery and skilled finishing.
Authentication Indicators
The lozenge-shaped maker's mark is a registered trademark of Mappin & Webb. The clean, crisp striking of the '3557' is consistent with original factory tooling.
Origin & Manufacturing
Sheffield, England. Manufactured in Mappin & Webb’s Royal Works, which combined industrial efficiency with traditional hand-finishing.
Era & Period
Late Victorian to early Edwardian (c. 1890-1910), categorized by the 'Princes Plate' branding and specific lozenge mark style.
Age Estimate
Circa 1890-1920. The stamp style and 'Princes Plate' designation was most prominent during this period of expansion for the firm.
Cultural Significance
Represents the rise of the upper-middle class in Britain, where high-quality silver plate allowed for a 'noble' dining experience without the extreme cost of solid sterling service.
Condition Notes
Very Good. The plating appears intact with no significant 'bleeding' (base metal showing through). Surface shows light micro-scratching consistent with decades of polishing.
Value Estimate
$40-$150 USD depending on the specific form (bowl vs tray) and the degree of intricate engraving or decoration on the exterior.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild silver cream like Wright's. Avoid abrasive 'dip' cleaners which can strip the thin layer of plating over time. Store in a dry environment.
Similar Pieces
Elkington & Co. 'Plate', Christofle 'Alfenide', or Gorham 'Silver Plate'. Differences lie in the specific alloy and the proprietary thickness of the Mappin plating.
Interesting Facts
Mappin & Webb has held Royal Warrants since 1897 and produced pieces for the Titanic, highlighting the prestige of their 'Princes Plate' line even in commercial settings.