Art Deco Era Silver Plate Coffee Pot by Reed & Barton
Hollowware (Coffee Pot) · Reed & Barton, established 1824 in Taunton, Massachusetts. A premier American silver manufacturer known for superior silver plate and high-quality artistic designs.
Pattern: Classical Art Deco Geometric Pattern; specific pattern number often stamped on the underside (likely part of a 1920s-30s hotel or domestic service line).
Type
Hollowware (Coffee Pot)
Maker
Reed & Barton, established 1824 in Taunton, Massachusetts. A premier American silver manufacturer known for superior silver plate and high-quality artistic designs.
Material
Silver plate over base metal (typically nickel silver or copper). The base metal is visible on the foot rim and high-friction areas where the silver has worn away.
Dimensions
Approximately 9-11 inches in height. Capacity is likely 4-6 cups. Estimated weight is 800-1100 grams due to the heavy gauge base metal used in Reed & Barton hollowware.
Description
This Art Deco silver-plated coffee pot by Reed & Barton exemplifies the transition from Victorian ornate styles to the sleek, industrial aesthetic of the early 20th century. Featuring a tall, elegant cylindrical body and a stepped pedestal foot, the piece is centered by a striking geometric cartouche. The engraving reflects the growing influence of architectural design on domestic objects. It is a robust, well-proportioned example of American commercial silver production.
Key Features
Distinctive triangular Art Deco cartouche, gooseneck spout, and the 'silver-to-base-metal' wear on the foot rim which confirms it is an authentic plated piece of its era.
Material & Composition
Silver plate over base metal (typically nickel silver or copper). The base metal is visible on the foot rim and high-friction areas where the silver has worn away.
Finish & Decoration
Polished mirror finish with machine-engraved Art Deco decoration. Features a central geometric cartouche with Greek-key influences and stylised floral/wheat details inside a triangular frame.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Expected stamps on the base: Reed & Barton name, 'EPNS' (Electroplated Nickel Silver), and the pattern/catalogue number. Hallmarks are not directly visible in the image.
Construction Details
Machine-spun body with mass-produced die-struck components. The spout and handle are likely hollow-cast and soldered to the body. The foot is a separate spun piece joined with silver solder.
Functional Features
Gooseneck pouring spout for smooth flow, hinged dome lid with bezel, and a pedestal foot for stability. Likely contains internal insulation discs in the handle to prevent heat transfer.
Handle & Grip Details
Silver-plated cast metal handle with a curved ergonomic grip. Secured to the body at two points with insulators. The top hinge indicates a thumb-lift mechanism for the lid.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial craftsmanship. The symmetry of the spout and the tight hinge tolerances are hallmarks of the Reed & Barton factory's high standards even for plated lines.
Authentication Indicators
Reed & Barton logo (shield or cursive name) on bottom, consistent wear patterns on friction points, and engraving quality typical of 1930s industrial production.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States, Taunton, Massachusetts. Manufactured in a large-scale industrial factory setting using precision engineering common in the early 20th century.
Era & Period
Art Deco (1920-1940). Indicators include the streamlined, cylindrical form and the sharp, geometric engraving featuring stylized angular motifs.
Age Estimate
Circa 1925-1935. Based on the specific style of the engraving and the transition toward more modern, functional silhouettes in American silver production.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of 'luxury' styles; silver-plated items allowed middle-class families in the early 20th century to showcase high-design trends like Art Deco in their homes without the cost of sterling.
Condition Notes
Good to Fair. The surface shows significant micro-scratching and patina wear. 'Bleeding' (the base metal showing through) is evident on the foot and spout edges. No major dents are visible, but the silver layer is thin.
Value Estimate
$30 - $75 USD. Value is limited by the fact that it is silver plate rather than sterling, and the visible wear to the plating ('bleeding') significantly impacts collector value.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a non-abrasive cream like Wright's Silver Cream. Avoid dips which can strip the thin remaining silver plating. Store in a tarnish-resistant cloth bag. Use a soft horsehair brush for engraving crevices.
Similar Pieces
International Silver Co.'s Art Deco lines, Gorham's 'Lady Diana' or hollowware from the 'Fairfax' line, and English Walker & Hall hotel-ware.
Interesting Facts
Reed & Barton was chosen to design the medals for the 1996 Olympic Games, highlighting their continued standing in American metalwork history. Their silver plate was often used in grand hotels.