Olde Thompson 18-8 Stainless Steel Mixing Bowl Model F4901
Hollowware / Kitchenware (Mixing Bowl) · Olde Thompson (The George S. Thompson Corp.). Known primarily as the world's largest manufacturer of pepper mills and spice racks, established in 1944. While not a traditional silver house, they produced high-quality durable kitchenware during the mid-to-late 20th century.
Pattern: F4901 Utility Line; characterized by a flared rim and high-mirror polished exterior with a brushed or satin interior.
Type
Hollowware / Kitchenware (Mixing Bowl)
Maker
Olde Thompson (The George S. Thompson Corp.). Known primarily as the world's largest manufacturer of pepper mills and spice racks, established in 1944. While not a traditional silver house, they produced high-quality durable kitchenware during the mid-to-late 20th century.
Material
18-8 Stainless Steel (304 grade). This alloy contains approximately 18% chromium and 8% nickel. It contains no actual silver. This is a non-precious consumer-grade metal prized for corrosion resistance and durability.
Dimensions
Approximately 5-7 inches in diameter; light-to-medium weight gauge steel typical of domestic mixing bowls.
Description
This is a classic 'Olde Thompson' professional-style mixing bowl. While it mimics the luster of polished silver, it is a piece of high-quality industrial kitchenware. Its mirror-polished exterior makes it an attractive piece for both food preparation and casual table service. Unlike silver, it is designed for heavy-duty kitchen use and resists denting and tarnishing.
Key Features
18-8 alloy grade stamp; Olde Thompson 'OT' star logo; characteristic heavy rolled rim; Model F4901 designation.
Material & Composition
18-8 Stainless Steel (304 grade). This alloy contains approximately 18% chromium and 8% nickel. It contains no actual silver. This is a non-precious consumer-grade metal prized for corrosion resistance and durability.
Finish & Decoration
Mirror-polished exterior and brushed/satin interior finish. The design is utilitarian, featuring no engraved or applied ornamentation, characteristic of the 'International Modern' aesthetic.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Manufacturer marks: '18-8 STAINLESS STEEL' (purity of alloy), 'OT' logo inside a stylized circle/star emblem, followed by 'THOMPSON' and the model number 'F4901'. These are factory machine-stamped marks, not hand-struck hallmarks.
Construction Details
Machine-spun and die-formed from a single sheet of stainless steel. Features a rolled or 'beaded' rim for structural rigidity and ease of pouring. Non-weighted, single-wall construction.
Functional Features
Deep hemispherical basin designed for mixing. The 18-8 composition ensures it is non-reactive to acidic foods (lemon juice, vinegar) and dishwasher safe.
Handle & Grip Details
Handle-less design; grip is achieved via the flared, rolled rim.
Craftsmanship Details
Mass-produced industrial quality. Uniform thickness and clean machine-stamped labeling indicate a high-volume manufacturing process rather than artisan silversmithing.
Authentication Indicators
The '18-8 STAINLESS STEEL' stamp is the primary indicator that this is not silver. The lack of silver hallmarks (lion passant, 'Sterling', or .925) confirms it is a base-metal alloy.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States (California base) or Japan (frequent outsourcing for OT stainless during this era).
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern / Post-War Industrial (c. 1960s-1980s). Focuses on ergonomic functionality and the 'machine-aesthetic' of polished steel.
Age Estimate
Circa 1970-1985 based on the typeface of the 'F4901' stamp and the logo style.
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-WWII shift toward 'Space Age' materials in the American kitchen, where stainless steel replaced silver-plated brass and ceramic for daily utility.
Condition Notes
Good to Fair. Visible heavy 'swirl' scratching and surface abrasions consistent with use with metal spatulas or whisks. No significant denting or oxidation visible. Needs thorough cleaning to remove adhesive residue (purple tape).
Value Estimate
$5.00 - $15.00. This is a common utility item with little to no precious metal or collector value, though it remains a highly functional kitchen tool.
Care & Maintenance
Dishwasher safe. To restore the exterior shine, a non-abrasive stainless steel cleaner (like Barkeepers Friend) can be used. Avoid steel wool which will create deep scratches. No silver polish required.
Similar Pieces
Revere Ware stainless bowls, Vollrath heavy-duty mixing bowls, or Cuisinart stainless sets. Often confused with Sheffield Silver Plate bowls by novices due to the high-shine finish.
Interesting Facts
Olde Thompson was founded by George S. Thompson, who is credited with introducing the first American-built pepper mill. This bowl was likely sold as part of a nested set.