Cohu Silver Plate Flatware in ATLA pattern by Carl M. Cohr
Flatware - Serving Spoon or Dinnerware · Carl M. Cohr (Fredericia, Denmark). Established in 1860, Cohr was one of Denmark's most prestigious silversmiths, rivaling Georg Jensen in quality during the early-to-mid 20th century.
Pattern: ATLA collection, featuring Skønvirke (Danish Art Nouveau) and traditional stylized floral motifs. This line was Cohr's primary silver plate brand.
Type
Flatware - Serving Spoon or Dinnerware
Maker
Carl M. Cohr (Fredericia, Denmark). Established in 1860, Cohr was one of Denmark's most prestigious silversmiths, rivaling Georg Jensen in quality during the early-to-mid 20th century.
Material
High-quality Silver Plate (Electroplated Nickel Silver). The 'ATLA' mark is Cohr's specific brand for his silver-plated production, known for heavy silver deposits.
Dimensions
Standard European dinner size; handle length approximately 12-14cm. Weight is substantial due to the dense nickel silver base metal used in Cohr's production.
Description
A fine example of Danish silver-plated flatware from the renowned workshops of Carl M. Cohr. This piece from the ATLA line showcases the organic, fluid aesthetics of the Danish Skønvirke movement, blending functional simplicity with elegant floral relief at the terminal.
Key Features
The 'ATLA' stamp is the primary identifier. High relief floral molding and the specific trilobed handle shape are diagnostic of Cohr's traditional patterns.
Material & Composition
High-quality Silver Plate (Electroplated Nickel Silver). The 'ATLA' mark is Cohr's specific brand for his silver-plated production, known for heavy silver deposits.
Finish & Decoration
Polished mirror finish with relief-molded floral and scroll terminal. The style is Skønvirke, the Danish equivalent of Art Nouveau/Arts & Crafts, characterized by organic flowing lines and stylized plant forms.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The reverse features the 'ATLA' stamp (Cohr’s silver plate mark), a small 'COHR' in a rectangle, a torch symbol (Danish quality mark for plate), and the 'EPNS' indicator.
Construction Details
Machine-pressed and die-struck with hand-finished edges. The pattern is stamped into the metal using high-pressure steel dies to ensure crisp detail in the floral relief.
Functional Features
Scalloped handle for ergonomic grip; solid flared terminal to balance the weight of the bowl or tines.
Handle & Grip Details
Solid metal handle integrated into the piece. No separate insulators or mixed materials. The terminal flares into a trilobed shape consistent with early 20th-century Danish design.
Craftsmanship Details
Displays excellent die-striking quality. The definition of the floral motif is sharp, a hallmark of Cohr's superior tooling compared to lower-end silver plate manufacturers.
Authentication Indicators
The ATLA and COHR marks are crisp and factory-set. The torch hallmark confirms Danish origin for silver-plated goods of this era.
Origin & Manufacturing
Fredericia, Denmark. Manufactured at the Cohr factory, which was the largest silver factory in Denmark for a significant portion of the 20th century.
Era & Period
Skønvirke (Danish Art Nouveau) transition to Art Deco context. Mid-century Danish traditionalism.
Age Estimate
Circa 1930s-1950s. The 'ATLA' branding was most prominent during this mid-century period as a luxury alternative to solid sterling silver.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of Danish design, allowing middle-class households to own 'Cohr quality' pieces that mirrored the expensive sterling silver designs of the time.
Condition Notes
Very Good. Visible light surface scratches (patina) consistent with moderate use. No 'bleeding' (base metal showing through silver) is evident in the photo, indicating the silver layer remains thick.
Value Estimate
$15 - $35 USD per individual piece depending on the specific form (serving pieces command more than standard spoons/forks).
Care & Maintenance
Clean with mild soapy water. Use a high-quality non-abrasive silver cream (like Wright's) only when tarnished. Avoid 'silver dips' which can strip the thin plating over time.
Similar Pieces
Georg Jensen's 'Bernadotte' or 'Acorn' patterns in silver plate; Frigast Danish plated flatware. Main difference is the Cohr-specific 'ATLA' marking and specific floral arrangement.
Interesting Facts
Cohr was a pioneer in Danish silver manufacturing, successfully transitioning from hand-wrought craftsmanship to industrial production while maintaining high artistic standards. The ATLA line was so well-regarded it was often used in European hotels and embassies.