Daniel & Arter Bengal Silver Flatware Piece
Flatware (Specific form likely Spoon or Fork) · Daniel & Arter (D&A), a prominent Birmingham, England firm founded in the late 19th century by Thomas Henry Daniel and Thomas Richard Arter. Known for their prolific production of both silver-plated and base-metal flatware.
Pattern: Bengal Silver (Proprietary metal/brand name)
Type
Flatware (Specific form likely Spoon or Fork)
Maker
Daniel & Arter (D&A), a prominent Birmingham, England firm founded in the late 19th century by Thomas Henry Daniel and Thomas Richard Arter. Known for their prolific production of both silver-plated and base-metal flatware.
Material
Nickel Silver (German Silver). Despite the 'Silver' in its name, Bengal Silver contains no solid silver; it is a base metal alloy typically of copper, nickel, and zinc designed to look like silver.
Dimensions
Standard flatware sizing; weight is slightly lighter than sterling silver but denser than aluminum; non-magnetic.
Description
This piece is a classic example of 'White Metal' flatware produced during the Victorian industrial era. Marketed under the exotic name 'Bengal Silver,' it was intended to provide the middle class with the look and durability of silver without the expense or the need for constant replating like EPNS.
Key Features
The 'D&A' shield mark and the specific 'BENGAL SILVER' stamp. This metal was a direct competitor to 'Nickel Silver' and 'Nevada Silver.'
Material & Composition
Nickel Silver (German Silver). Despite the 'Silver' in its name, Bengal Silver contains no solid silver; it is a base metal alloy typically of copper, nickel, and zinc designed to look like silver.
Finish & Decoration
Polished metallic finish with typical late-Victorian or Edwardian utilitarian styling. The back of the stem features incuse stamps for the maker and brand.
Hallmarks & Stamps
'D&A' inside a shield (Maker's Mark for Daniel & Arter); 'BENGAL' in a rectangular cartouche; 'SILVER' in a rectangular cartouche. These are trade marks, not official assay hallmarks.
Construction Details
Die-struck and machine-manufactured. The stamps are applied during the forging or stamping process from heavy gauge sheet metal.
Functional Features
Corrosion-resistant alloy designed for heavy daily use in households and hotels. No mechanical features.
Handle & Grip Details
Integrated solid metal handle; usually part of a 'Fiddle', 'Old English', or 'King's' pattern variant depending on the full piece profile.
Craftsmanship Details
Mass-produced quality with high-pressure die stamping; consistent lettering in stamps indicates high-quality industrial tooling.
Authentication Indicators
The absent lion passant or purity marks confirm this is a base-metal alloy. The stamps are clear and match known Daniel & Arter trade marks.
Origin & Manufacturing
Birmingham, England. Produced in the Globe Neville Street works, a major center for British metalware manufacturing.
Era & Period
Late Victorian to George V (c. 1880-1920); the industrial boom era of 'White Metal' alternatives.
Age Estimate
Circa 1890-1915. The 'D&A' mark and 'Bengal Silver' branding were most active during this late 19th/early 20th-century window.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the Victorian desire for affordable luxury and the rise of mass-produced industrial tableware for the growing middle class and the hospitality industry.
Condition Notes
Good. Shows surface scratches and 'flea bites' consistent with a century of use. Unlike silver plate, it will not 'bleed' brassy colors because it is the same color metal through and through.
Value Estimate
$5 - $15 USD. These pieces are valued as collectibles or for 'mismatched' sets rather than for precious metal content.
Care & Maintenance
Can be cleaned with mild soap and water. Metal polish may be used to restore shine, though tarnish is less aggressive than on sterling silver. Avoid abrasive pads.
Similar Pieces
Potosi Silver, Nevada Silver, Alpacca, and EPNS (Electroplated Nickel Silver). The primary difference is that 'Bengal' is unplated base metal.
Interesting Facts
Daniel & Arter produced several proprietary alloys with names like 'Nevada Silver', 'Bengal Silver', and 'Japanese Silver' to imply luxury and exotic origins for what were essentially copper-nickel alloys.