International Silver Co. Electroplated Nickel Silver Footed Bowl
Hollowware (Footed Bowl/Compote) · International Silver Company (ISC). Formed in 1898 in Meriden, Connecticut, through the merger of many American silversmiths. This specific mark is for the Canadian branch of the company, which established a strong manufacturing presence in Hamilton and Niagara Falls, Ontario.
Pattern: Unidentified Pattern Number 527 1/2. Typical of 20th-century institutional or domestic 'hotel plate' inspired lines. Pattern 527 1/2 refers to the specific shape and size in the manufacturer's catalog.
Type
Hollowware (Footed Bowl/Compote)
Maker
International Silver Company (ISC). Formed in 1898 in Meriden, Connecticut, through the merger of many American silversmiths. This specific mark is for the Canadian branch of the company, which established a strong manufacturing presence in Hamilton and Niagara Falls, Ontario.
Material
Silver Plate (EPNS - Electroplated Nickel Silver). The base metal is a nickel-copper-zinc alloy (nickel silver) which is then electroplated with a thin layer of pure silver. It contains no solid precious metal content.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter of 4 to 6 inches (10-15 cm). Typical weight for EPNS hollowware of this size is approximately 150-250 grams. Not standard sterling weight; noticeably lighter than solid silver.
Description
A utilitarian yet elegant Canadian-made silverplate bowl. Representative of mid-20th century domesticity, this piece by International Silver Co. features a clean, bulbous body supported by three discrete ball feet. Its industrial-strength nickel-silver base ensures durability, while the thick electroplating once provided a lustrous shine suitable for a formal dining table or a casual sideboard.
Key Features
The 'IS' diamond trademark for the Canadian division; the specific industrial pattern number '527 1/2'; the three-footed 'ball and socket' style construction.
Material & Composition
Silver Plate (EPNS - Electroplated Nickel Silver). The base metal is a nickel-copper-zinc alloy (nickel silver) which is then electroplated with a thin layer of pure silver. It contains no solid precious metal content.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish. The item features a globular, rounded form with three applied bun feet. The decoration is minimalist, focusing on form and utility rather than ornate engraving or repoussé.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The hallmark consists of a diamond logo containing the initials 'IS' (International Silver). Below the diamond is 'MADE IN CANADA', followed by the number '44' and the pattern/model number '527 1/2'. The absence of '925' or 'Sterling' confirms it is plated.
Construction Details
Machine-made and spun. The body was likely formed on a lathe over a chuck. The three bun feet are separate castings that have been machine-soldered to the base of the bowl.
Functional Features
Tri-point footing for stability on uneven surfaces. The rounded interior is designed for easy cleaning, common in mid-century serving dishes or sugar bowls.
Handle & Grip Details
No handles or grips are visible on this specific model; it is a simple footed vessel designed for lifting by the body.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard industrial production. The symmetry is excellent due to machine spinning, and the marks are cleanly struck, reflecting the high quality control of the International Silver factories.
Authentication Indicators
Clear, authentic factory stamps. The marking 'MADE IN CANADA' and the specific numerical font used for '527 1/2' are consistent with known International Silver Co. production from the mid-20th century.
Origin & Manufacturing
Canada (likely Hamilton or Niagara Falls, Ontario). International Silver Co. of Canada Ltd. was a major employer and producer of silverplate for the Canadian market and export.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern / Post-War Industrial (1940s-1950s). The simplistic design reflects the move toward streamlined, functional household items following the elaborate styles of the early 20th century.
Age Estimate
Circa 1944-1955. The stamp '44' may potentially indicate a year code, which was a common practice for International Silver to track production batches.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of silver; silverplate allowed middle-class households to enjoy the aesthetic of precious metals without the extreme cost of sterling, a hallmark of mid-century aspiring societal standards.
Condition Notes
Good condition. Visible copper/nickel 'bleed' or heavy tarnish in the center of the base (reddish-brown hue), indicating the silver plating is wearing thin in high-friction areas. Minor surface scratches consistent with use.
Value Estimate
$10 - $25 USD. Market value for individual, non-sterling plated items is generally low, based on decorative appeal rather than metal content.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with mild dish soap and water. Use a non-abrasive silver polish like Wright’s Silver Cream. Avoid 'dip' cleaners as they can strip the thin plating. Store in a cool, dry place away from rubber bands which cause permanent black scarring.
Similar Pieces
Oneida Community silverplate bowls, Rogers Bros (also an ISC brand) '1847' line, and Birks Regency plate. These differ primarily by the specific maker's marks and pattern numbers.
Interesting Facts
International Silver Co. was once the largest manufacturer of silverware in the world. Their Canadian factory produced vast amounts of silverplate for Canadian hotels, railways (like CN and CP), and the military during WWII.