Benedict Plate Silver-Plated Hollowware Bowl No. 2224
Hollowware (Bowl/Vessel) · Benedict Manufacturing Company (East Syracuse, New York). Founded in 1894 by M.S. Benedict, they were a major American producer of silver-plated hollowware and metal goods before closing in 1953.
Pattern: Pattern No. 2224; likely a simplified Art Deco or Utility design common in early-to-mid 20th-century commercial and domestic silver plate.
Type
Hollowware (Bowl/Vessel)
Maker
Benedict Manufacturing Company (East Syracuse, New York). Founded in 1894 by M.S. Benedict, they were a major American producer of silver-plated hollowware and metal goods before closing in 1953.
Material
Silver Plate (Electroplated Nickel Silver or White Metal). The 'Plate' mark indicates a thin layer of silver over a base metal alloy.
Dimensions
Estimated 4-6 inches in diameter based on stamp scale; weight is moderate but does not carry the intrinsic value of solid silver.
Description
An American silver-plated bowl featuring the classic 'Benedict Plate' mark. The item displays a deep, heavy patina with colorful violet and amber tarnish, suggesting long-term exposure to the atmosphere without polishing. It represents the utilitarian end of the American silver industries' mid-century output.
Key Features
Arch-shaped maker's stamp and the specific production mold number 2224; deeply tarnished surface with circular buffing marks visible under the patina.
Material & Composition
Silver Plate (Electroplated Nickel Silver or White Metal). The 'Plate' mark indicates a thin layer of silver over a base metal alloy.
Finish & Decoration
Polished silver finish, now showing heavy iridescent tarnish (sulfidation). Minimalist decoration typical of the later Benedict production lines, focusing on form rather than ornate chasing.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'BENEDICT PLATE' in an arched formation with '2224' below it. It lacks the 'Sterling' or '925' marks, confirming it as plated ware.
Construction Details
Machine-stamped and spun from a sheet of base metal, then electroplated. This is industrial-scale manufacturing rather than hand-wrought craftsmanship.
Functional Features
Smooth interior bowl for serving or display; likely part of a nested set or a specific service piece like a finger bowl or small waste bowl.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A; this appears to be a handleless circular bowl.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard commercial grade. The stamping is clear but the finish shows the hallmarks of machine-buffing and industrial plating rather than artisan hand-finishing.
Authentication Indicators
The stamp is consistent with known Benedict Manufacturing Co. marks for silver-plated goods. The lack of purity hallmarks (like the lion passant or 'Sterling' text) confirms its plated status.
Origin & Manufacturing
USA; East Syracuse, New York. Manufactured in the Benedict factory which was known for durable silver-plated hospitality and household goods.
Era & Period
Mid-Century / Late Art Deco transition (c. 1930s-1950s), characterized by industrial mass production and simplified branding.
Age Estimate
Circa 1940-1950. The block lettering and 'Benedict Plate' mark style are consistent with the company's output during and just after WWII.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of 'silver' in the American home through mass production, making elegant-looking service pieces affordable for the middle class.
Condition Notes
Fair condition. Heavy tarnish (sulfide layer) covers the base. There are visible surface scratches and 'flea bites' consistent with metal-on-metal stacking and use. No major dents are visible in this view.
Value Estimate
$10 - $25 USD. Silver-plated items from this era without significant historical provenance or elaborate design typically hold value mainly as decorative or functional utility pieces.
Care & Maintenance
Requires a gentle silver cream (like Wright's) to remove heavy oxidation. Do not use abrasive 'dips' as they can wear through thin plating. Store in a tarnish-resistant cloth bag.
Similar Pieces
International Silver Co. plated bowls, Reed & Barton silver-plated hollowware, or Oneida Community plate items. These are often similar in price and utility.
Interesting Facts
The Benedict Manufacturing Co. was once the largest employer in East Syracuse and a pioneer in the 'Indestructo' line of silver-plated ware designed for high-traffic hotels and restaurants.