International Silver Co. Avon Pattern Silverplate Hollowware Piece #3612
Hollowware (likely a bowl, tray, or dish base) · International Silver Co. (IS), a major American conglomerate formed in 1898 from several historic Connecticut silversmiths. This specific branding 'WARWICK' was used as a line for silver-plated ware produced for retail and commercial use.
Pattern: Avon Pattern, #3612. Introduced in the mid-20th century as part of the Warwick line. It is a discontinued commercial/consumer silverplate pattern.
Type
Hollowware (likely a bowl, tray, or dish base)
Maker
International Silver Co. (IS), a major American conglomerate formed in 1898 from several historic Connecticut silversmiths. This specific branding 'WARWICK' was used as a line for silver-plated ware produced for retail and commercial use.
Material
EPNS (Electroplated Nickel Silver). The base metal is an alloy of copper, nickel, and zinc, which is then electrolytically coated with a thin layer of fine silver.
Dimensions
Based on the stamping size, this is a standard hollowware piece. Diameter likely ranges from 6 to 10 inches depending on the form (bowl vs platter). Weight is generally heavier than sterling due to the dense base metal alloy.
Description
An International Silver Co. hollowware piece from the Warwick production line. This silver-plated item represents the mid-century American desire for accessible luxury. Characterized by its sturdy construction and the 'Avon' pattern's classic appeal, it served as a versatile piece for the domestic tabletop.
Key Features
Unique pattern name 'AVON' and line name 'WARWICK' stamped alongside the catalog reference number 3612, which allows for precise identification in historic trade catalogs.
Material & Composition
EPNS (Electroplated Nickel Silver). The base metal is an alloy of copper, nickel, and zinc, which is then electrolytically coated with a thin layer of fine silver.
Finish & Decoration
The item features a high-polish mirror finish on the interior with a production-stamped maker's mark. The Avon line typically featured simple, restrained gadrooned or scrolled borders reflecting mid-century traditional tastes.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'AVON' (pattern name), 'WARWICK' (product line/brand), and the design number '3612'. It lack the 'Sterling' or '925' mark, which confirms its status as silverplate.
Construction Details
Machine-manufactured. The piece was die-struck or spun from a sheet of nickel silver, polished, and then electroplated. The markings are machine-stamped.
Functional Features
Includes a flat or slightly recessed base for stability. Design #3612 refers to a specific shape in the International Silver catalog, typically a serving dish or shallow bowl.
Handle & Grip Details
Not clearly visible in the hallmark photo, but the 'Avon' line often featured integrated silver-plated handles or simple flared rims.
Craftsmanship Details
Mass-produced factory item. The quality is consistent and durable, meant for everyday use, with clean machine finishing rather than hand-chased details.
Authentication Indicators
The absence of a Lion Passant or '925' mark clearly identifies this as plated. The 'Warwick' stamp is an authentic trademark of the International Silver company's lower-to-mid-tier offerings.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America, likely Meriden or Bridgeport, Connecticut, the historic heart of the American silver industry and home to International Silver Co. factories.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (approx. 1940-1960). This period saw a high volume of silverplate production for the emerging American middle class looking for classic formal dining aesthetics.
Age Estimate
Circa 1945-1955. The font style and the 'Warwick' branding are consistent with post-WWII American silverplate production.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of formal dining in post-war America, where silverplate allowed families to emulate the 'sterling lifestyle' at a fraction of the cost.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Visible surface scratches (swirl marks) indicate frequent cleaning. Significant 'pitting' or dark corrosion spots are visible near the stamps, suggesting the silver plating has been breached, exposing the base metal to oxidation.
Value Estimate
$15 - $45 USD. Silverplate hollowware generally holds value based on utility and decorative appeal rather than metal content, as it cannot be melted for significant profit.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild silver cream (e.g., Wright's) and a soft cloth only. Avoid over-polishing as the silver layer on plated items is thin and can be 'polished through' to the yellowish nickel-silver base below. Do not put in a dishwasher.
Similar Pieces
Gorham 'Heritage' silverplate, Oneida 'Community' plate, or Reed & Barton 'Winthrop' line. These differ primarily in pattern motifs and base metal thickness.
Interesting Facts
International Silver Co. was once the largest manufacturer of silver in the world and provided much of the silverplate used by luxury hotels and railroads during the mid-20th century.