International Silver Company Silver-Plated Hollowware Vessel
Hollowware (likely a Bowl, Dish, or Base of a Water Pitcher) · International Silver Company (IS). Formed in 1898 in Meriden, Connecticut, by a corporation of several independent New England silver companies. It was the world's largest silver manufacturer during much of the 20th century.
Pattern: Unidentified due to orientation and sticker; however, the 'IS' mark commonly appears on varied patterns such as 'Countess' or 'Camille'.
Type
Hollowware (likely a Bowl, Dish, or Base of a Water Pitcher)
Maker
International Silver Company (IS). Formed in 1898 in Meriden, Connecticut, by a corporation of several independent New England silver companies. It was the world's largest silver manufacturer during much of the 20th century.
Material
Silver Plate (Electroplated Nickel Silver - EPNS). The base metal is likely a copper-nickel-zinc alloy known as Nickel Silver, coated with a thin layer of pure silver via electrolysis.
Dimensions
Estimated base diameter of 4 to 5 inches. Weight is approximately 300-600 grams depending on whether the full object is a bowl or a pitcher. This appears to be a standard table-service size.
Description
This piece is a classic example of American mass-market silver-plated hollowware. Produced by the International Silver Co., it represents the mid-century goal of bringing the aesthetic of sterling silver to the middle-class American home through durable electroplating.
Key Features
The 'IS' logo is the primary diagnostic trait. The heavy scratching on the base is typical for silver plate that has been moved across tables and stored without protective flannel.
Material & Composition
Silver Plate (Electroplated Nickel Silver - EPNS). The base metal is likely a copper-nickel-zinc alloy known as Nickel Silver, coated with a thin layer of pure silver via electrolysis.
Finish & Decoration
Polished mirror finish on the base; visible surface scratches indicate usage. The visible portion is plain, but the outer rim suggests a rounded, traditional hollowware form.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The 'IS' mark within a circular crest is visible, containing the wording 'SILVER CO.'. This is the standard trademark logo for the International Silver Company as used on their silver-plated lines.
Construction Details
Machine-pressed or spun hollowware. The foot is likely soldered to the main body. High-production industrial manufacturing typical of 20th-century American silver plate.
Functional Features
Planar base for stability on flat surfaces. The circular indentation suggests a standard footed vessel design meant for liquids or food service.
Handle & Grip Details
Not visible in the frame; however, looking at the background items, these pieces typically feature cast C-scroll handles or plain rolled rims.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial quality. The hallmark is die-stamped with clear, machine-cut precision. The edges are finished smoothly with no evidence of hand-hammering or artisanal raising.
Authentication Indicators
The hallmark is consistent with known International Silver Co. stamps. The color of the metal where scratched suggests a nickel-silver base rather than sterling silver, which would be whiter.
Origin & Manufacturing
Meriden, Connecticut, USA. Manufactured in one of the central International Silver Co. factories utilizing automated electroplating processes.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (1940-1970). The specific typography of the IS mark and the industrial stamping technique are indicative of this high-volume production era.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1965. The mark style was ubiquitous during the post-WWII boom of domestic silver consumption in the United States.
Cultural Significance
Silver-plated hollowware of this era was a staple of 'Sunday Dinner' culture and bridal registries in the mid-20th century, symbolizing domestic refinement and hospitality.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. There is significant surface scratching ('flea bites') and adhesive residue from a pricing sticker. Tarnish is light but visible in the crevices of the hallmark stamp.
Value Estimate
$5.00 - $15.00 USD. Silver-plated pieces by IS are very common and generally valued for utility or decorative use rather than metal content or rarity.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild silver cream (e.g., Wright's) and a soft sponge to remove adhesive residue. Avoid abrasive scrubbers which will strip the thin silver plating and reveal the yellow/grey base metal beneath.
Similar Pieces
Often confused with Gorham's EP (Electroplate) line or Reed & Barton's silver-plate offerings. The main difference lies in the specific shield or circular design of the IS logo.
Interesting Facts
The International Silver Company was so large that they produced everything from fine sterling for the White House to stainless steel flatware for the US Army.