Mid-Century Scalloped Silverplate Fluted Nut or Bonbon Dish
Hollowware (Nut Dish, Bonbonierre, or Butter Pat) · Likely American or European mass-market silverplate manufacturer (e.g., Oneida, International Silver, or Leonard). These fluted 'shell' patterns were ubiquitous in mid-20th-century silverplate production for giftware.
Pattern: Generic fluted shell/scalloped edge pattern; similar to 'Paul Revere' fluting or 'Chippendale' scalloped influences commonly used in 1940s-1960s hollowware.
Type
Hollowware (Nut Dish, Bonbonierre, or Butter Pat)
Maker
Likely American or European mass-market silverplate manufacturer (e.g., Oneida, International Silver, or Leonard). These fluted 'shell' patterns were ubiquitous in mid-20th-century silverplate production for giftware.
Material
Silver Plate on white metal or brass base. The visible surface shows significant oxidation and 'clouding' characteristic of thin electroplated silver. The base metal is likely a copper-based alloy or nickel silver.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter of 4 to 6 inches (10-15 cm). Weight is likely between 80 to 150 grams. It appears to be an individual-sized nut dish or a small bonbon tray.
Description
A classic examples of mid-century hospitality, this fluted silverplate dish features a radiant sunburst of concave ribs extending to a scalloped rim. This 'bonbon' style bowl was a staple of the mid-20th-century dining room, designed to catch light and provide a touch of elegance to a cocktail table or sideboard.
Key Features
Radial fluting with 18-24 segments; deeply scalloped edge; highly reflective interior surface (when polished); shallow depth.
Material & Composition
Silver Plate on white metal or brass base. The visible surface shows significant oxidation and 'clouding' characteristic of thin electroplated silver. The base metal is likely a copper-based alloy or nickel silver.
Finish & Decoration
Polished mirror finish with radial fluting (concave ribs) and a scalloped (crenated) rim. There are no engraved or chased motifs, relying on the geometry of the fluting for visual interest.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not clearly visible in image; would likely be located on the underside. Typical stamps for this quality include 'E.P.N.S' (Electroplated Nickel Silver) or 'Silver on Copper' with a manufacturer's pictorial mark.
Construction Details
Machine-pressed or die-struck from a flat sheet of base metal then electroplated. The uniform thickness and precision of the fluting suggest industrial production rather than hand-raising.
Functional Features
Open shallow bowl design intended for finger foods, candies, or nuts. Small enough to be used as a dresser tray for jewelry or a decorative soap dish.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A; the item is a simple dish without handles or a raised pedestal foot.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard industrial grade. The edges appear smooth but lacks the hand-filed sharpness of luxury silver. The symmetry is achieved through mechanical die-stamping.
Authentication Indicators
The lack of crispness in the fluted edges and the 'greyish' tone of the tarnish strongly indicate silverplate rather than solid sterling. The wear pattern suggests a machine-made item from the mid-20th century.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely United States or United Kingdom. Mass-produced in a factory setting using hydraulic presses and electroplating baths to meet high consumer demand for affordable 'silver' table settings.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (1940s-1970s). The simplified, geometric interpretation of the scalloped shell is typical of mid-20th-century hostess gifts and household silverplate.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1965. The style and the level of surface wear/oxidation are consistent with post-WWII household silverplate.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of luxury in the 20th century, where silverplated items allowed middle-class households to emulate the 'Old World' silver services of the aristocracy.
Condition Notes
Fair condition. Heavy surface tarnish, 'milkiness' indicating oxidation of the silver layer, and possible 'pitting' from contact with salt or moisture. Significant hard-water spotting or chemical residue is visible in the center.
Value Estimate
$5.00 - $15.00 USD. Common silverplated giftware items of this type carry minimal resale value unless by a prestigious maker or part of a larger set.
Care & Maintenance
Polish gently with a high-quality cream like Wright's Silver Cream. Avoid abrasive pads which will strip the thin silver layer and reveal the yellowish base metal beneath. Store in a tarnish-free cloth.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany & Co. Sterling Shell Dish (higher value, solid silver); Oneida Silverplate Butter Pat (flatter, smaller); Gorham Sterling Nut Dish (hallmarked, heavier construction).
Interesting Facts
Small dishes like these were once considered essential 'bridge prizes' or wedding favors in the mid-century era, leading to millions of variations being produced by silver companies.