Edwardian Style Silver Plated Scalloped Rose Bowl with Frog Insert
Hollowware (Rose Bowl / Flower Vases) · Likely a European or American manufacturer specializing in silver-plate such as Barker-Ellis, Sheridan, or Poole. The lack of visible marks requires a bottom inspection.
Pattern: Rococo Revival Scalloped Shell and Scroll Pattern
Type
Hollowware (Rose Bowl / Flower Vases)
Maker
Likely a European or American manufacturer specializing in silver-plate such as Barker-Ellis, Sheridan, or Poole. The lack of visible marks requires a bottom inspection.
Material
Silver Plate on base metal (likely copper/EPNS). The iridescent blue/black tarnish is characteristic of thinning silver plate over a non-noble base metal.
Dimensions
Estimated 8-10 inches in diameter, approximately 4-5 inches in height. Weight approximately 400-600 grams including the frog insert.
Description
A decorative silver-plated rose bowl featuring a deeply lobed or scalloped body. The upper rim is adorned with intricate pierced scrollwork, and the center is fitted with a matching perforated dome (frog) to facilitate formal flower arrangements.
Key Features
Removable perforated flower frog, scalloped 'melon' shaped body, and ornate reticulated border decoration.
Material & Composition
Silver Plate on base metal (likely copper/EPNS). The iridescent blue/black tarnish is characteristic of thinning silver plate over a non-noble base metal.
Finish & Decoration
Pierced openwork (reticulation), chased scrollwork, and scalloped repoussé edges. Features a matte, heavily tarnished sulfide finish with iridescent highlights.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not visible from top; typically located on the base. Likely includes 'EPNS' or a manufacturer's shield/crown common in 20th-century silver-plate.
Construction Details
Machine-pressed body with die-cut piercing (reticulation). The center 'frog' is a separate stamped insert designed to hold flower stems.
Functional Features
Removable domed 'frog' insert with circular apertures for floral arranging; scalloped body acts as a water reservoir.
Handle & Grip Details
None; handle-less hollowware design intended for tabletop display.
Craftsmanship Details
Die-stamped decorative elements and industrial piercing; reflects high-volume commercial production quality rather than bespoke silversmithing.
Authentication Indicators
The tarnish color (rainbow/oil-slick effect) is a strong indicator of silver plate rather than sterling. Symmetry and repeated patterns suggest machine manufacture.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely United States or United Kingdom; mass-produced using industrial silver-plating techniques.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (c. 1940-1960) in the Neo-Edwardian/Victorian Revival style.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950. The precision of the piercing and the wear pattern suggest a mid-century decorative piece.
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-war trend of affordable luxury, where middle-class households used silver-plated items to emulate 19th-century aristocratic dining traditions.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Heavy oxidation/sulfide tarnish is present. Significant surface wear and 'bleeding' of the base metal may be present under the tarnish.
Value Estimate
$25 - $65 USD depending on the manufacturer noted on the base and the condition of the plating once cleaned.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild silver cream (Wright's) using a soft sponge. Avoid abrasive dips which can strip the thin silver layer and reveal the copper/nickel base.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany sterling rose bowls (heavy weight, hand-chased), or Gorham silver-plated hollowware (similar weight, different scroll patterns).
Interesting Facts
Rose bowls became popular in the Victorian era as centerpieces that allowed low-profile floral arrangements so guests could see each other across the table.