American Coin Silver Greek Revival Covered Tureen by E.L. & Co.
Hollowware (Tureen / Covered Serving Dish) · The maker's mark *E.L.&CO* refers to E. Lownes & Co (Edward Lownes), a prestigious American silversmith and retailer active in Philadelphia during the mid-19th century. Lownes was noted for high-quality domestic silver and presentation pieces.
Pattern: Greek Revival / Neo-Grec architectural pattern, characterized by the Greek Key (meander) border and palmette/anthemion motifs. These were often custom-produced or part of small-batch workshop runs rather than named mass-market flatware-style patterns.
Type
Hollowware (Tureen / Covered Serving Dish)
Maker
The maker's mark *E.L.&CO* refers to E. Lownes & Co (Edward Lownes), a prestigious American silversmith and retailer active in Philadelphia during the mid-19th century. Lownes was noted for high-quality domestic silver and presentation pieces.
Material
American Coin Silver (approximately .900 purity). The 'STANDARD' stamp confirms it meets the coin silver standard common in the US before the 1860s transition to Sterling (.925). Solid metal construction, no base metal visible.
Dimensions
Approximately 10-12 inches in diameter; estimated weight 30-45 troy ounces. The scale is consistent with a main-course vegetable tureen or a small soup tureen.
Description
This imposing American silver tureen reflects the peak of 19th-century domestic luxury. Its hemispherical body and high-domed lid are anchored by a meticulously engraved Greek Key frieze, a hallmark of the sophisticated Greek Revival style. The radiant mirror finish provides a canvas for the elegant period monogram. This piece represents the evolution of American silver from regional hand-craft to the industrial excellence of the post-Civil War era.
Key Features
The 'STANDARD' mark, indicating American coin silver; the sharp Greek Key border; the Edward Lownes maker mark; and the high-relief cast handles. The specific 1871 presentation date adds significant historical context.
Material & Composition
American Coin Silver (approximately .900 purity). The 'STANDARD' stamp confirms it meets the coin silver standard common in the US before the 1860s transition to Sterling (.925). Solid metal construction, no base metal visible.
Finish & Decoration
Mirror-polished surface featuring bright-cut engraving and chasing. Decoration includes a prominent Greek Key border, lotus and palmette leaf motifs, and a teardrop or acorn-style finial. It features a Victorian script monogram 'BBM' and the date 'Jan 4th 1871'.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Three distinct stamps: 'STANDARD' indicates silver purity; '*E.L.&CO*' is the manufacturer's/retailer's mark; '479' is likely a factory pattern or inventory number. The lack of city marks is common for American pieces of this specific transition period.
Construction Details
Hand-raised body with a spun lid. The handles appear to be cast and silver-soldered to the body. The finial is likely cast separately and threaded or soldered to the lid dome. The Greek Key band shows evidence of machine-assisted chasing or engraving.
Functional Features
Large domed lid to retain heat, twin side handles for transport, and a tall finial for easy removal. The lid fit indicates precision metalwork. A vent or spoon notch may be present but is not visible in the current angle.
Handle & Grip Details
Silver cast handles with foliate or scroll aesthetics typical of the 1860s-70s. The finial is a smooth, tapered cone/teardrop shape providing an ergonomic grip. Handles are securely soldered with high-purity silver solder.
Craftsmanship Details
Master-level execution of bright-cut engraving. The symmetry of the Greek Key border suggests a high degree of skill. The thickness of the silver walls indicates a high-weight premium piece intended for longevity.
Authentication Indicators
Hallmarks are struck with appropriate depth and serif fonts for the period. The wear pattern is consistent with careful domestic use. The construction techniques (casting vs. spinning) align with E.L. & Co. workshop standards.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States, likely Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Philadelphia was a major hub for high-end coin silver production during the mid-19th century following British and Continental stylistic influences.
Era & Period
High Victorian Transition / Greek Revival (c. 1860-1880). It blends the heavy proportions of the mid-Victorian era with the crisp, architectural lines of the Neo-Grec movement.
Age Estimate
Produced circa 1865-1871. While the engraving is dated 1871, the 'Standard' coin silver mark suggests it was manufactured slightly earlier or during the very end of the coin silver era before Sterling dominance.
Cultural Significance
Tureens were the centerpieces of 19th-century formal dining (service à la russe). Owning a silver tureen of this size and quality was a clear signifier of upper-class social status and refined taste in Victorian America.
Condition Notes
Overall Excellent condition. Surface shows light cleaning scratches (swirls) and minor oxidation in the recessed engraving. No significant dents, thinning, or structural repairs are visible. The engraving remains crisp.
Value Estimate
$1,200 - $2,200 USD. Value is driven by the maker's reputation, the weight of the coin silver, and the popularity of the Greek Revival style. Presentation dates can slightly lower value compared to unmonogrammed pieces, but adds provenance.
Care & Maintenance
Hand wash with mild soap and water. Polish only with high-quality non-abrasive creams like Wright's. Store in a tarnish-resistant Pacific Silvercloth bag. Avoid 'silver dips' which can strip the protective patina in the engraving.
Similar Pieces
Gorham 'Greek Key' hollowware, Tiffany & Co. Early Sterling Tureens, or Peter Krider coin silver bowls. This piece is distinguished by the specific Philadelphia Lownes origin.
Interesting Facts
The date 'Jan 4th 1871' could suggest a New Year's or wedding gift. During this era, coin silver was often made by melting down actual silver coins when bullion was scarce, though by 1870, this was largely a naming convention for the .900 standard.