Towle Silver Plate 'Old Master' Pattern Round Fluted Serving Bowl
Hollowware (Serving Bowl / Compote) · Towle Silversmiths, founded in 1690 by William Moulton in Newburyport, Massachusetts. One of America's most prestigious silversmiths, famous for their craftsmanship and long-standing historical designs.
Pattern: Old Master, introduced in 1942. This is Towle's most iconic and best-selling pattern, featuring ornate Victorian-styled scrolls and floral groupings. While famous in sterling flatware, it was also produced in silver-plated hollowware.
Type
Hollowware (Serving Bowl / Compote)
Maker
Towle Silversmiths, founded in 1690 by William Moulton in Newburyport, Massachusetts. One of America's most prestigious silversmiths, famous for their craftsmanship and long-standing historical designs.
Material
Silver Plate (Electroplated Nickel Silver - EPNS). The presence of 'bleeding' (copper/pinkish hue showing through on high points of the floral scrolls) indicates an electroplated silver layer over a base metal rather than solid sterling.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter: 9 to 11 inches; Depth: 2 to 3 inches. Weight: Approximately 600-800 grams, as plated hollowware is typically built on a substantial base metal for durability.
Description
An elegant example of American mid-century table service, this Towle bowl features the beloved Old Master pattern. The elaborate border of roses and scrolls offers a romantic, traditional aesthetic that complements formal dining settings. The fluted center provides a striking radial visual effect that draws the eye toward the center of the dish.
Key Features
Distinctive 'Old Master' rose and daisy clusters, scalloped edge, radial interior flutes, and the specific 'bleeding' wear on the high-relief decorations.
Material & Composition
Silver Plate (Electroplated Nickel Silver - EPNS). The presence of 'bleeding' (copper/pinkish hue showing through on high points of the floral scrolls) indicates an electroplated silver layer over a base metal rather than solid sterling.
Finish & Decoration
Ornate Rococo-revival style featuring heavy repoussé and chasing. The rim is decorated with bouquets of roses and daisies framed by scrolls and volutes. The interior features a radial fluted or lobed bowl design to create structural interest and catch light.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually stamped on the underside with the Towle 'T' with a lion mark, often accompanied by 'TOWLE', 'EP' (Electroplate), and a catalog item number. This piece lacks a 'Sterling' mark, confirming its status as silver plate.
Construction Details
Machine-pressed or die-struck bowl with applied or stamped decorative border. The fluting is uniform, suggesting a industrial press-formed manufacturing process typical of mid-20th-century production.
Functional Features
Wide scalloped rim for easy handling, deep recessed bowl for serving vegetables, rolls, or fruit. The fluted interior prevents items from sticking and facilitates easy cleaning.
Handle & Grip Details
Integrated wide scalloped rim serves as the continuous grip; no separate handles are attached.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality die work with crisp definition in the floral clusters. While mass-produced, the finishing on the edges and the symmetry of the fluting represent the high standards of U.S. silver companies in their prime.
Authentication Indicators
Pattern matches known Towle archive designs. Lack of a sterling stamp is the primary indicator of its plated nature. The weight and specific wear pattern are consistent with Towle's EPNS line.
Origin & Manufacturing
Made in Newburyport, Massachusetts, United States. Towle utilized modern manufacturing techniques alongside hand-finishing for their higher-end plated lines.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern production (c. 1950s-1970s) executed in the Rococo/Victorian Revival style. The pattern was incredibly popular for wedding gifts during this era.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1970. The wear pattern and specific style of 'Old Master' plated hollowware suggest a mid-to-late 20th-century manufacture date.
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-WWII American aspiration for formal entertaining. 'Old Master' became a staple of the American 'trousseau' or bridal registry, symbolizing domestic refinement and status.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. There is significant 'bleeding' (base metal showing through) on the raised floral elements, likely due to over-polishing or age. Visible tarnish and light surface scratches in the basin. No visible dents.
Value Estimate
$25.00 - $60.00 USD. Value is limited due to the wear-through of the silver plating and the high volume of production for this specific line.
Care & Maintenance
Polish gently with a non-abrasive cream like Wright's. Avoid over-polishing as the silver layer is already thin. Hand wash only in warm soapy water and dry immediately with a soft cloth.
Similar Pieces
Wallace 'Grand Baroque' Plated Bowls (similar ornate style), Reed & Barton 'Francis I' (more fruit-heavy motif), or Gorham 'Chantilly' (simpler scroll motifs).
Interesting Facts
The 'Old Master' pattern was inspired by the fine arts of the 16th and 17th centuries. It is credited with keeping Towle profitable through various economic cycles because of its universal appeal.
Notes
Towle