AWWIKEMANN Silver Plated Hollowware Dish or Platter
Hollowware (Platter or Dish) · Wilvensmann (AWWIKEMANN), a well-known Belgian manufacturer of high-quality silver-plated tableware, renowned for durable hotel and fine dining silver.
Pattern: Standard commercial or hospitality line, featuring clean minimalist borders, mid-20th century production.
Type
Hollowware (Platter or Dish)
Maker
Wilvensmann (AWWIKEMANN), a well-known Belgian manufacturer of high-quality silver-plated tableware, renowned for durable hotel and fine dining silver.
Material
Silver Plated (EPNS - Electroplated Nickel Silver) over a base metal alloy typically consisting of copper, nickel, and zinc.
Dimensions
Large serving platter form, approximately 24 cm in diameter based on the stamped size indicator.
Description
A sturdy and utilitarian silver-plated hollowware dish or platter produced by the renowned Belgian maker AWWIKEMANN. The surface exhibits characteristic circular polishing marks from use and maintenance, bordered by stepped concentric rings that add subtle architectural depth. Stamped clearly on the underside rim with identification numbers and maker's hallmarks, this piece represents durable European hospitality silver designed to withstand decades of professional use.
Key Features
Crisp manufacturer punch marks, numerical size designation '24', monogram maker's mark 'WW', and heavy-duty silver plate over a robust base metal core.
Material & Composition
Silver Plated (EPNS - Electroplated Nickel Silver) over a base metal alloy typically consisting of copper, nickel, and zinc.
Finish & Decoration
Polished metallic surface with visible concentric lathe or polishing striations, featuring stepped rim borders characteristic of functional utility hollowware.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Clearly marked with size indicator '24', maker's rectangular stamp 'AWWIKEMANN', maker's monogram logo 'WW' inside a geometric frame, and production or batch code '35'.
Construction Details
Machine-manufactured, likely spun on a lathe from base metal sheet stock followed by electroplating and manual finishing polishes.
Functional Features
Designed for food service presentation in high-end dining or hospitality environments, featuring a stable flat base and raised tiered rim to retain juices.
Handle & Grip Details
Rimless or integrated rim design relying on the stepped edge for secure gripping during service.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial quality production with clean stamp strikes, precise lathe-spun concentric rings, and durable electroplated coating engineered for longevity.
Authentication Indicators
Authentic manufacturer stamps including the distinct AWWIKEMANN boxed signature and monogram 'WW' hallmark match known corporate archives for the brand.
Origin & Manufacturing
Belgium (Antwerp/Brussels region), produced under European industrial silversmithing standards.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (c. 1940-1970) based on hallmark style and typography.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1970, deduced from the manufacturer logo style and the punch numbering system.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the mid-century expansion of standardized, high-durability luxury tableware for European hospitality and upscale domestic dining.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good condition. Shows moderate surface scratching and wear consistent with regular polishing and commercial use, but retains full structural integrity with no base metal bleed-through visible in the photographed area.
Value Estimate
Estimated market value ranges between $30 to $100 USD depending on the exact item form (tray vs. cloche) and local collector demand for European hotelware.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with mild soapy water and a soft cloth. Use dedicated silver-plated polish sparingly to avoid wearing through the electroplated layer. Store in a dry, tarnish-inhibiting environment.
Similar Pieces
Comparable to silver-plated platters and chargers produced by Christofle or WMF during the same era.
Interesting Facts
AWWIKEMANN supplied luxury silver plate to elite European hotels, ocean liners, and fine dining establishments throughout the 20th century.