International Silver Co. Garland/Springtime Pattern Silverplate Tablespoon
Flatware (Spoon, Tablespoon/Serving Spoon) · International Silver Co. (IS), specifically produced under the 1847 Rogers Bros. or Wm. Rogers line. International Silver was formed in 1898 through the merger of multiple independent silversmiths in Meriden, Connecticut.
Pattern: Likely 'Springtime' or 'Garland' (c. 1910-1920), a high-relief floral and scroll pattern characteristic of early 20th-century floral revivals. Such patterns were produced in high volume for middle-class American households.
Type
Flatware (Spoon, Tablespoon/Serving Spoon)
Maker
International Silver Co. (IS), specifically produced under the 1847 Rogers Bros. or Wm. Rogers line. International Silver was formed in 1898 through the merger of multiple independent silversmiths in Meriden, Connecticut.
Material
Electroplated Nickel Silver (EPNS) or Silver Plate. This is a base metal (usually a copper/nickel/zinc alloy) coated with a thin layer of pure silver via electrolysis. It is not solid sterling silver.
Dimensions
Estimated length of 7.5 to 8.5 inches (19-21 cm). Estimated weight is approximately 50-70 grams. This size indicates a standard tablespoon or oval soup spoon.
Description
This is a classic example of American 'Heritage' silverplate. Featuring a lush floral pattern that flows into scrolled borders, it represents the aspirations of early 20th-century dining. Despite the current heavy tarnish, the depth of the casting suggests a higher-grade plating line like the 1847 Rogers Bros. brand.
Key Features
The most distinguishing feature is the scrolled flared handle ('Fiddle' variant) and the centralized floral cluster at the tip of the handle. The length of the neck stamp is a hallmark of International Silver products.
Material & Composition
Electroplated Nickel Silver (EPNS) or Silver Plate. This is a base metal (usually a copper/nickel/zinc alloy) coated with a thin layer of pure silver via electrolysis. It is not solid sterling silver.
Finish & Decoration
The item features a die-struck relief decoration on the handle featuring scrolled edges and floral blossoms. The surface shows heavy tarnish (oxidization) and a worn mirror polish on the bowl.
Hallmarks & Stamps
While blurred, the stamp on the reverse neck typically reads '1847 ROGERS BROS.' or 'WM. ROGERS & SON' followed by 'IS' or 'A1' (referring to plating quality). There is no 'Sterling' or '.925' mark visible.
Construction Details
Machine-manufactured using die-striking techniques where the pattern is pressed into the metal using heavy steel dies. The bowl and handle are a single continuous piece of metal.
Functional Features
Deep oval bowl for serving or consuming soup/porridge. The handle is flared and contoured to provide a comfortable grip and balance during use.
Handle & Grip Details
Solid metal construction (base metal) with a fiddle-shaped flared end. The grip features a scrolled silhouette. The condition appears structurally sound but heavily patinated.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard mass-market quality. The die-work is crisp, but the finishing is machine-driven. Evidence of 'flash' or mold lines may be visible upon close inspection of the handle edges.
Authentication Indicators
The placement and length of the stamp on the reverse of the 'stems' is the primary indicator of a Rogers/International Silver product. The lack of a 'Lion Passant' or 'Sterling' mark confirms it is silverplate.
Origin & Manufacturing
USA, Meriden, Connecticut. This was the hub of the American silver plating industry during the early 20th century.
Era & Period
Late Edwardian / Early Art Nouveau Influence (c. 1910-1930). The use of organic floral motifs combined with mass-production techniques is typical of this American flatware period.
Age Estimate
Circa 1915-1925. The pattern style and the visible stamping format are consistent with International Silver production from the first quarter of the 20th century.
Cultural Significance
Represented the 'democratization of luxury' in America, allowing middle-class families to own dining sets that looked like solid silver but were affordable for everyday use.
Condition Notes
Grade: Fair to Good. The piece exhibits heavy tarnish and 'heel wear' (plating thinning on the back of the bowl). There are no visible cracks, but the silver layer may be compromised underneath the oxidation.
Value Estimate
$3.00 - $8.00 USD. As a single plated spoon with heavy tarnish and likely 'heel wear,' it holds primarily sentimental or utilitarian value rather than investment value.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild silver cream (e.g., Wright's) and a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive 'dip' cleaners which can strip the thin silver plating and expose the yellowish nickel-silver base metal underneath.
Similar Pieces
Often confused with 'Charter Oak' or 'Vintage' patterns by the same maker, but 'Springtime' has a more delicate floral arrangement compared to the heavier grape/oak leaf motifs.
Interesting Facts
The '1847 Rogers Bros' brand name was so successful that International Silver kept the date '1847' in the hallmark for over a century, despite the pieces being made much later.