International Silver Co. 'Frontenac' Pattern Sterling Silver Teaspoon
Flatware (Teaspoon) · International Silver Company (specifically the Wilcox & Evertsen division). International was formed in 1898 in Meriden, Connecticut, by merging several prominent American silver manufacturers, becoming the world's largest silver producer.
Pattern: Frontenac pattern, designed by Gilbert Crowell and introduced in 1902. This Art Nouveau pattern is highly sought after for its intricate floral lily motifs. It is now discontinued.
Type
Flatware (Teaspoon)
Maker
International Silver Company (specifically the Wilcox & Evertsen division). International was formed in 1898 in Meriden, Connecticut, by merging several prominent American silver manufacturers, becoming the world's largest silver producer.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). The alloy consists of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% copper for strength.
Dimensions
Standard teaspoon length, approximately 5.8 to 6 inches (14.7-15.2 cm). Estimated weight is 28-35 grams (roughly 0.9-1.1 troy oz) based on the heavy gauge of the Frontenac pattern.
Description
This Frontenac teaspoon is a quintessential example of the American Art Nouveau movement. The Frontenac pattern is famous among collectors for its lush representation of lilies, lily pads, and undulating vines that crawl up the handle. The scale of the decoration is generous, giving the piece a substantial feel in the hand. It represents the height of Edwardian-era dining luxury.
Key Features
Distinguishing characteristics include the patent date 'JAN 13 03' and the specific sculptural lily motif which is unique to this Crowell design. The thickness of the silver is higher than standard commercial flatware of the era.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). The alloy consists of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% copper for strength.
Finish & Decoration
Art Nouveau style featuring a high-relief repoussé and chased floral lily design on the handle. The surface shows a natural aged patina with heavy oxidation in the recesses which highlights the detail of the lily pads and flowers.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The back of the handle is stamped 'PAT. JAN. 13, 03' (referring to the 1903 patent date for the design) and 'STERLING'. The maker's mark for Wilcox & Evertsen (a shield with a 'W' and 'E') is typically found near the bowl base, though partially obscured by tarnish in the photo.
Construction Details
Machine-pressed and die-struck from high-gauge sterling silver sheets. The deep relief of the floral pattern indicates a high-tonnage drop press was used to achieve the detail.
Functional Features
Ovoid bowl and flared handle. The pattern is 'multi-motif', meaning different pieces in the set featured different stages of the lily flower's bloom.
Handle & Grip Details
Solid sterling silver handle integrated with the bowl. The handle features a shapely, contoured edge and a heavy floral grip common to high-end Belle Époque flatware.
Craftsmanship Details
Excellent die-work. The transition from the bowl to the handle (the 'drop') is well-proportioned, and the piercing precision of the die indicates a high-end production standard for the International Silver conglomerate.
Authentication Indicators
The presence of the 'Sterling' stamp and the specific 1903 patent date align perfectly with the Frontenac pattern's recorded production history. The depth of the die-striking is consistent with authentic Wilcox & Evertsen tooling.
Origin & Manufacturing
Manufactured in Meriden, Connecticut, USA. Meriden was known as 'Silver City' during this era due to the concentration of expert silversmithing workshops.
Era & Period
Art Nouveau (1890-1910). The design language focuses on organic, flowing lines and botanical realism typical of the early 20th century American aesthetic.
Age Estimate
Circa 1903-1920. While the patent is 1903, the heavy oxidation and wear suggest an early production run from the first two decades of the 20th century.
Cultural Significance
Frontenac was part of the 'Golden Age' of American flatware, when affluent households sought specialized utensils for every course. It reflects the era's obsession with nature and the 'Language of Flowers'.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. There is significant surface tarnish and heavy oxidation (sulfurization) across the entire piece. Minor surface scratches and 'flea bites' consistent with age and use are visible on the bowl. No major bends or structural repairs noted. Grade: Good (Antique).
Value Estimate
$45.00 - $75.00 USD for a single teaspoon in this condition. Professional polishing would bring it toward the higher end of the range.
Care & Maintenance
Requires a thorough cleaning with a high-quality silver cream (e.g., Wright's) and a soft horsehair brush to remove tarnish from the deep crevices of the lily pattern. Avoid chemical 'dips' which can strip the beautiful natural contrast from the relief.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany & Co. 'Chrysanthemum' (similar floral density), Gorham Manufacturing 'Lily' (similar motif but different execution), and Wallace 'Grand Baroque' (later, more Rococo than Art Nouveau).
Interesting Facts
The Frontenac pattern is one of the most expensive Art Nouveau patterns to collect today because of its 'multi-motif' nature; the dinner fork, spoon, and knife all feature slightly different botanical arrangements.