J.B. Chatterley & Sons 'Old English Reproduction' Silver Plate Hollowware
Hollowware (likely a Sugar Bowl, Creamer, or small Trophy Cup) · J.B. Chatterley & Sons Ltd. Founded in Birmingham, England (late 19th century). Known for high-quality silver plate and reproduction Georgian designs.
Pattern: Old English Reproduction, Pattern No. 42. A revival collection mimicking 18th-century Georgian aesthetics.
Type
Hollowware (likely a Sugar Bowl, Creamer, or small Trophy Cup)
Maker
J.B. Chatterley & Sons Ltd. Founded in Birmingham, England (late 19th century). Known for high-quality silver plate and reproduction Georgian designs.
Material
Silver Plate (Electroplated Nickel Silver - EPNS). The base metal is a copper-nickel-zinc alloy, evidenced by the warm/yellowish undertones where the silver thinness occurs.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter of base: 3-4 inches. Weight is likely heavy for its size due to the nickel-silver base metal.
Description
This piece is a classic example of British mid-height hollowware by J.B. Chatterley & Sons. Utilizing the 'Old English Reproduction' moniker, it captures the austere elegance of pre-Victorian silver. The piece features a deep well and a sturdy pedestal, designed for durability in a domestic tea or dining setting.
Key Features
Explicit 'Old English Reproduction' stamp, JBC&S logo, and the pattern number 42 which identifies it within the Chatterley catalog.
Material & Composition
Silver Plate (Electroplated Nickel Silver - EPNS). The base metal is a copper-nickel-zinc alloy, evidenced by the warm/yellowish undertones where the silver thinness occurs.
Finish & Decoration
Polished mirror finish with minimal ornamentation, typical of the 'Old English' minimalist style. Features a simple rolled rim and visible tarnish/oxidation.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'JBC & S' in a shield (Maker's mark for J.B. Chatterley & Sons), 'OLD ENGLISH REPRODUCTION', and the pattern number '42'. Note: Lack of lion passant indicates it is not sterling.
Construction Details
Machine-spun circular body with a soldered pedestal base. The marks are die-stamped into the bottom of the foot.
Functional Features
Features a raised pedestal base for stability and likely two side handles (one partially visible) for serving or display.
Handle & Grip Details
Cast metal handle, likely C-scroll or strap style, soldered to the main body. Appears to be solid metal rather than hollow.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial craftsmanship. The stamp is crisp and well-centered, and the soldering of the base shows professional factory finishing typical of Birmingham workshops.
Authentication Indicators
The JBC&S mark is a verified maker's stamp. The absence of British sterling hallmarks (Lion Passant, Assay mark, Date letter) confirms this is silver plate.
Origin & Manufacturing
Birmingham, England. Produced in the West Midlands, the historic heart of the British silver plating industry.
Era & Period
20th Century Revival (Mid-Century). Designed to emulate the Georgian period (1714-1837) through the 'Old English' design movement.
Age Estimate
Circa 1930-1960. Based on the stamping style and the popularity of 'Old English Reproduction' lines during the mid-20th century.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the mid-20th-century nostalgia for Georgian simplicity over the perceived 'clutter' of Victorian era design.
Condition Notes
Good condition but shows significant 'bleeding' (tarnish and wear where base metal shows through). Heavy oxidation inside the foot rim. Light surface scratching.
Value Estimate
$20 - $45 USD. Value is decorative rather than intrinsic metal value; the visible wear to the plating (bleeding) reduces collector demand.
Care & Maintenance
Polish with a non-abrasive silver cream (like Wright's). Do not use silver dips, as the chemicals can accelerate the 'bleeding' of the base metal on plated items.
Similar Pieces
Similar to Barker Ellis or Viners of Sheffield reproductions, though Chatterley pieces are often considered slightly higher quality in plating thickness.
Interesting Facts
J.B. Chatterley & Sons were prestigious enough to have a London showroom and frequently supplied high-end retailers with these Georgian-style reproductions.