Vintage Sterling Silver Sauceboat or Gravy Boat
Hollowware (Gravy Boat / Sauceboat) · Unidentified Maker (Likely American or International Silversmith due to standard Sterling mark)
Pattern: Plain Classic Design (Undesignated standard line, mid-20th century)
Type
Hollowware (Gravy Boat / Sauceboat)
Maker
Unidentified Maker (Likely American or International Silversmith due to standard Sterling mark)
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity), solid silver construction with a polished finish
Dimensions
Standard individual gravy boat size, approximately 15-20 cm in length and weighing roughly 150 to 250 grams
Description
An elegant and functional sterling silver sauceboat or gravy boat featuring a sleek, unadorned body with a bright mirror polish. The piece sits upon a neat circular pedestal base and incorporates a gracefully upswept pouring spout and a comfortable loop handle. Its minimalist design makes it remarkably versatile for both formal dining tables and mid-century contemporary settings.
Key Features
Clean, unembossed surface profile, robust sterling silver gauge, stable circular footed base, and clear maker's stamp reading 'STERLING' on the underside
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity), solid silver construction with a polished finish
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish with a clean, unadorned, streamlined surface reflecting classic mid-century or traditional utilitarian aesthetic
Hallmarks & Stamps
Visible underside hallmarks include a square maker's emblem alongside a 'STERLING' purity stamp and numbers indicating mold or inventory references
Construction Details
Formed via machine press or spinning with hand-soldered handle attachments and an integrated flat circular pedestal base
Functional Features
Streamlined pouring spout, an ergonomic curved loop handle for secure gripping, and a flat circular base for stability on tabletops
Handle & Grip Details
Solid silver loop handle attached securely via soldered joints, featuring a simple ergonomic curve designed for one-handed pouring
Craftsmanship Details
Clean solder joints, symmetrical contouring, uniform wall thickness, and a smooth, flawless mirror finish showing competent commercial silversmithing
Authentication Indicators
Authentic 'STERLING' punch mark paired with a manufacturer hallmark on the base; natural surface micro-scratching confirms age and genuine silver composition
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely United States, produced during the mid-20th century height of commercial sterling hollowware production
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (c. 1940-1960), reflecting transitional styling that blends traditional forms with clean functionalism
Age Estimate
Circa 1940-1965 based on the style of the punch hallmarks and the clean, unadorned modernist-leaning silhouette
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-war middle-class aspiration for formal dining accessories, bringing precious metals into everyday family holiday meals
Condition Notes
Very Good condition with minor surface hairline scratches and normal polishing wear consistent with gentle use and age; no major dents, splits, or structural repairs
Value Estimate
Estimated between $100 and $250 USD depending on exact weight, current silver spot price, and specific maker identification
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth; polish periodically with high-quality silver cream like Wright's; store in a tarnish-resistant flannel pouch or anti-tarnish chest
Similar Pieces
Similar classic gravy boats produced by major American manufacturers such as Gorham, Wallace, and International Silver
Interesting Facts
Sauceboats like this evolved from 18th-century boat-shaped designs into more streamlined vessels by the mid-20th century to match modern table-setting trends