Eberle Silver Plated Flatware Serving Spoon
Flatware Serving Piece · Eberle, a known European or regional manufacturer of silver-plated tableware and cutlery, recognized for producing durable utilitarian and decorative flatware.
Pattern: Standard utility or classical transitional pattern, featuring a stepped or reeded handle border typical of mid-20th-century European table services.
Type
Flatware Serving Piece
Maker
Eberle, a known European or regional manufacturer of silver-plated tableware and cutlery, recognized for producing durable utilitarian and decorative flatware.
Material
Silver-plated base metal, typically nickel silver or electroplated nickel silver (EPNS), consisting of a copper-nickel-zinc alloy coated with a layer of pure silver.
Dimensions
Standard serving flatware dimensions, approximately 18 to 21 cm in length, with a balanced weight typical of mid-century European silver-plated tableware.
Description
An elegant silver-plated flatware piece featuring the distinct 'EBERLE' maker's mark cleanly stamped into a rectangular recess on the reverse of the handle. The handle showcases clean, classical border lines that taper gracefully toward the terminal. The surface exhibits a warm silver luster alongside minor signs of age-appropriate tarnish and handling wear, making it a charming addition to a vintage table setting.
Key Features
Clearly legible 'EBERLE' manufacturer stamp in a rectangular cartouche; classic tapered handle with raised border details.
Material & Composition
Silver-plated base metal, typically nickel silver or electroplated nickel silver (EPNS), consisting of a copper-nickel-zinc alloy coated with a layer of pure silver.
Finish & Decoration
Mirror polish on the central panels with subtle raised border detailing outlining the tapered handle shaft, reflecting a functional modernist or traditional utilitarian style.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Impressed manufacturer mark reading 'EBERLE' encased within a rectangular sunken cartouche on the reverse side of the handle.
Construction Details
Machine-manufactured via die-stamping from a sheet of base metal, followed by electroplating and manual finishing and polishing.
Functional Features
Designed for serving side dishes, vegetables, or sauces, featuring an ergonomically tapered handle and an appropriately proportioned bowl.
Handle & Grip Details
Integrated solid base metal handle with a flared terminal and raised edge detailing, offering a secure and comfortable grip.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard commercial manufacturing quality of the mid-20th century, combining precise die-stamping with consistent electroplating and hand-buffing.
Authentication Indicators
The stamped 'EBERLE' mark is crisp, evenly impressed within a structured cartouche, and aligns with standard mid-century European flatware marking practices.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely European origin (such as Germany or Austria, where the surname Eberle is common among historical metalworking and cutlery workshops).
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (c. 1930-1960), indicated by the sans-serif or block-letter cartouche hallmark style and common European flatware production trends.
Age Estimate
Circa 1940-1960 based on the crispness of the stamped maker's mark and the style of the silver-plated surface wear.
Cultural Significance
Represents the widespread adoption of silver plating in households during the mid-20th century, allowing broader access to elegant tableware previously reserved for solid silver owners.
Condition Notes
Very Good vintage condition. The surface displays moderate tarnish, minor micro-scratches from use and storage, and intact silver plating with no visible base metal breakthrough. Graded as Very Good.
Value Estimate
Modest collector or replacement market value, typically ranging from $10 to $30 USD depending on the specific form, completeness of a set, and overall condition.
Care & Maintenance
Clean gently with a soft cloth and a reputable silver polishing cream like Wright's Silver Cream. Store in an anti-tarnish cloth or bag to minimize oxidation.
Similar Pieces
Silver-plated flatware items from European manufacturers such as WMF, Wellner, or Krupp Berndt, which feature similar base metal composition and maker's stamp styles.
Interesting Facts
Makers bearing the Eberle name have historically contributed to regional European cutlery and metalware traditions, often supplying durable everyday and institutional dining wares.