International Silver Co. Royal Danish Pattern Sterling Silver Fluted Bowl
Hollowware (Fruit/Serving Bowl) · International Silver Company, based in Meriden, Connecticut. Formed in 1898 from a consortium of major American silversmiths, it became one of the world's largest and most reputable silver manufacturers.
Pattern: Royal Danish (Inspired by Georg Jensen's Scandinavian designs), introduced in 1939. This is one of International Silver's most successful and enduring 'prestige' patterns.
Type
Hollowware (Fruit/Serving Bowl)
Maker
International Silver Company, based in Meriden, Connecticut. Formed in 1898 from a consortium of major American silversmiths, it became one of the world's largest and most reputable silver manufacturers.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Solid composition throughout; no base metals or weighting visible in this form.
Dimensions
Estimated 9 to 11 inches in diameter, 2 to 3 inches in height. Standard weight for this sterling model ranges from 450 to 600 grams (14.5 to 19 troy ounces).
Description
A classic example of American Mid-Century luxury, this Royal Danish bowl features ten striking fluted lobes that radiate from the center to a beautifully scalloped and stepped rim. The design pays homage to minimalist Scandinavian silversmithing while maintaining the substantial weight and presence expected of American sterling hollowware. It is a versatile centerpiece that captures light elegantly across its undulating surfaces.
Key Features
Prominent radial fluting; distinctive 'stepped' scalloped rim; heavy gauge sterling construction; iconic Scandinavian-inspired American design.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Solid composition throughout; no base metals or weighting visible in this form.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish with oxidized accents in crevices. Features deep fluting (lobed design) with a multi-step scalloped rim. Stylistic influence is Neoclassical with a Modernist 'Danish' lean.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Expected marks on bottom: 'Royal Danish', 'International', 'Sterling', and the pattern number (usually A101 or similar). May include the 'I-S' maker's mark within a cartouche.
Construction Details
Likely manufactured using a combination of die-stamping for the initial form and machine-spinning, followed by hand-finishing and polishing to define the fluted ridges.
Functional Features
Wide, shallow basin suitable for serving fruit, bread, or as a centerpiece. The heavy gauge of the sterling provides stability without the need for a weighted base.
Handle & Grip Details
Handle-less design; fluted rim provides a natural grip for moving the piece.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality factory craftsmanship. The symmetry of the flutes and the crispness of the stepped rim indicate high-pressure die work and expert mechanical polishing.
Authentication Indicators
The specific rim profile and fluting depth are exact matches for the Royal Danish catalog. Wear patterns on the interior floor are consistent with genuine silver usage over decades.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America; Meriden, Connecticut. Manufactured in high-volume industrial silver factories using precision engineering.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern / Late Art Deco transition. While introduced in 1939, it reflects the 'Danish Modern' aesthetic that dominated mid-20th-century American luxury homes.
Age Estimate
Circa 1940-1960. The patina and visible tarnish suggest mid-20th-century production rather than a contemporary reproduction.
Cultural Significance
Represented the American shift away from ornate Victorian styles toward 'cleaner' European modernism. It served as a status symbol of the growing American middle-to-upper class's sophistication in the post-WWII era.
Condition Notes
Good overall condition but shows significant heavy tarnish and 'milky' oxidation likely from moisture exposure or storage in plastic. Visible surface scratches consistent with use. No major dents or structural warping visible from top view.
Value Estimate
$600 - $900 USD. Value is driven primarily by its silver weight (melt value) plus a 20-30% premium for the popular Royal Danish pattern and maker prestige.
Care & Maintenance
Requires deep cleaning with a high-quality cream like Wright's Silver Cream to remove the heavy tarnish. Avoid 'silver dips' which can strip the intentional oxidation in the design crevices. Store in a Pacific Silvercloth bag.
Similar Pieces
Georg Jensen 'Bernadotte' (more expensive, hand-hammered); Gorham 'Chantilly' (more ornate/floral); Reed & Barton 'Francis I' (significantly heavier repoussé style).
Interesting Facts
The Royal Danish pattern was so popular it was produced as a full line including over 50 different types of hollowware and a complete flatware set; it was often the go-to wedding gift for high-society couples in the 1940s and 50s.