Hildesheimer Rose Pattern Silver-Plated Flatware
Flatware (Likely a spoon or fork) · Unknown German manufacturer; marked 'Hartglanz'. The term 'Hartglanz' literally translates to 'hard gloss/shine,' referring to the durable silver-plating process rather than a specific silversmith. The 'Star' or 'Flower' symbol is a generic trademark for German plate.
Pattern: Hildesheimer Rose, a traditional German design based on the 1000-year-old rose bush at Hildesheim Cathedral. Introduced mid-20th century.
Type
Flatware (Likely a spoon or fork)
Maker
Unknown German manufacturer; marked 'Hartglanz'. The term 'Hartglanz' literally translates to 'hard gloss/shine,' referring to the durable silver-plating process rather than a specific silversmith. The 'Star' or 'Flower' symbol is a generic trademark for German plate.
Material
Silver-plated base metal (likely Alpacca or Nickel Silver base). The '90' stamp indicates the German plating standard: 90 grams of pure silver were used to plate a set of 24 pieces.
Dimensions
Standard luncheon or dessert size, likely 14-18cm in length. Weight is consistent with silver-plated flatware, heavier than aluminum but lacks the density of solid sterling.
Description
This piece features the iconic Hildesheimer Rose pattern, one of Germany's most exported and beloved flatware designs. Characterized by its romantic, floral Rococo influence, the design captures the essence of German folklore. The 'Hartglanz' silver plating ensures a bright, enduring luster that serves as a beautiful alternative to solid silver for daily elegant dining.
Key Features
The '90' plating mark, the 'Hartglanz' signature, and the specific petal arrangement of the rose at the terminal of the handle.
Material & Composition
Silver-plated base metal (likely Alpacca or Nickel Silver base). The '90' stamp indicates the German plating standard: 90 grams of pure silver were used to plate a set of 24 pieces.
Finish & Decoration
High-relief Rococo-style decoration featuring the distinctive Hildesheimer Rose and scrolling foliage. Oxidized recesses to highlight the floral details.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped '90' (silver plate thickness), followed by 'Hartglanz' (brand/process name), and a stylized six-petaled flower or star logo.
Construction Details
Die-struck/machine-made. The sharp edges of the pattern indicate a high-pressure industrial stamping process typical of post-WWII German manufacturing.
Functional Features
Single-piece construction for durability; the 'Hartglanz' finish was marketed as being exceptionally resistant to scratching and tarnishing.
Handle & Grip Details
Tapered handle with integral molded floral decoration. The back (shown) is typically flat or slightly contoured for thumb placement.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial quality production. Excellent detail in the die-stamping, though lacks the hand-chased finesse of fine 19th-century sterling. The plating is thick and well-applied.
Authentication Indicators
The '90' mark confirms it is NOT sterling silver (.925). The crispness of the stamp suggests authentic mid-century production rather than a modern reproduction.
Origin & Manufacturing
Germany. The '90' mark and the pattern itself are synonymous with German cutlery traditions during the economic miracle (Wirtschaftswunder) era.
Era & Period
Mid-Century / Post-War (c. 1950-1970). While the pattern is based on medieval history, this specific production style is Mid-20th Century German.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950–1965 based on the font of the 'Hartglanz' stamp and the specific execution of the rose pattern.
Cultural Significance
A staple of German household pride in the mid-20th century, often given as wedding gifts to represent longevity and beauty.
Condition Notes
Very Good. Visible light surface scratches (swirls) and minor tarnish in the crevices. No signs of 'bleeding' (base metal showing through). Grade: Very Good.
Value Estimate
$5 to $15 USD per individual piece. Full sets (6 person or 12 person) typically sell for $50 to $150 depending on the number of serving pieces included.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with mild soapy water. Use a gentle silver cream like Wright's for heavier tarnish. Avoid the 'foil and baking soda' method, as it can strip the 'Hartglanz' finish over time.
Similar Pieces
Antiko (a common maker of this pattern), Robbe & Berking (higher-end versions), and WMF (Wuerttembergische Metallwarenfabrik) variants.
Interesting Facts
The '1000-year-old rose' that inspired this design actually exists; it grows on the wall of the Hildesheim Cathedral and survived the Allied bombings of 1945, becoming a symbol of resilience.