International Silver Co. 'Frontenac' Pattern Sterling Silver Trivet
Hollowware (Trivet/Platter Stand) · International Silver Company (Meriden, CT). Successor to several prestigious American silversmiths, the company was known for mass-market luxury as well as high-end sterling lines. This piece is specifically associated with the International Sterling brand.
Pattern: Frontenac (also known as Lily-of-the-Valley). Introduced in 1902. This is one of the most iconic Art Nouveau floral patterns in American silver history, known for its intricate pierced work and botanical motifs.
Type
Hollowware (Trivet/Platter Stand)
Maker
International Silver Company (Meriden, CT). Successor to several prestigious American silversmiths, the company was known for mass-market luxury as well as high-end sterling lines. This piece is specifically associated with the International Sterling brand.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). The piece is solid sterling, evidenced by the characteristic deep oxidation in the recessed lattice and the crispness of the cast floral elements.
Dimensions
Estimated 6 to 8 inches in diameter. Weight typically ranges between 150 to 250 grams (approx. 5-8 troy ounces) depending on whether it has weighted feet. This appears to be the standard circular or heart-shaped variant.
Description
An exquisite example of Edwardian dining luxury, this Frontenac trivet by International Sterling showcases the pinnacle of the Art Nouveau influence on American hollowware. The design features a delicate yet sturdy lattice of silver bars, punctuated by miniature blossoms that seem to float within the frame. The scalloped border provides a regal finish, making it as much a piece of table jewelry as a functional kitchen accessory.
Key Features
Signature 'Frontenac' floral intersections, high-contrast oxidation, and the specific scalloped laurel border which distinguishes it from simpler lattice trivets of the same era.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). The piece is solid sterling, evidenced by the characteristic deep oxidation in the recessed lattice and the crispness of the cast floral elements.
Finish & Decoration
Art Nouveau style featuring a heavy patina/oxidized finish in the recesses to highlight the detail. The design consists of a diagonal trellis/lattice (pierced openwork) accented with small six-petaled flower heads at the intersections. The border features a stylized laurel or foliate scroll edge.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Typically marked on the underside of the rim with 'International Sterling', the 'IS' knight/shield logo, or the specific pattern name. Given the image angle, the .925/Sterling mark would be located on the reverse perimeter.
Construction Details
Cast and die-struck construction with extensive hand-finishing for the piercing. The openwork is achieved through a combination of die-cutting and manual filing to ensure clean edges within the lattice squares.
Functional Features
Pierced openwork design allows for heat dissipation, making it functional as a trivet for hot teapots or serving dishes. It likely features three or four small silver ball feet on the reverse to elevate it from the table surface.
Handle & Grip Details
Features integrated silver loops or small side handles (one visible at the bottom of the image) for easy lifting. These are cast as part of the frame to ensure structural rigidity.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality die-work. The alignment of the six-petaled flowers at كل junction point demonstrates superior mold design and finishing compared to generic 20th-century silver-plated alternatives.
Authentication Indicators
Pattern-correct floral intersections and border scrolls. The density of the silver and the precision of the piercing are consistent with authentic International Sterling production rather than later plated reproductions.
Origin & Manufacturing
USA (Meriden, Connecticut). International Silver Co. was a powerhouse of New England silver manufacturing, combining traditional craftsmanship with industrial production capabilities.
Era & Period
Art Nouveau (Late Victorian/Edwardian transition). The naturalistic floral theme and flowing organic borders are hallmark indicators of the early 20th-century aesthetic movement.
Age Estimate
Circa 1902-1920. While the pattern remained popular for decades, the heavy gauge and quality of piercing in this example suggest an early production period.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Gilded Age' of American dining, where every functional item—from bread trays to trivets—was expected to be a decorative work of art reflecting the owner's status and taste.
Condition Notes
Very Good/Excellent. The silver shows a beautiful natural patina with some surface micro-scratching consistent with age. No visible breaks in the delicate lattice or distorted edges. Tarnish is heavy in the recesses, which is desirable for detail visibility.
Value Estimate
$250 - $450 USD. Value is driven by the popularity of the Frontenac pattern and the weight of the silver. Items without monograms typically fetch a premium.
Care & Maintenance
Gentle cleaning with a soft horsehair brush and non-abrasive silver cream (e.g., Wright's). Avoid 'silver dips' which would strip the intentional oxidation from the recesses, ruining the visual depth of the pattern.
Similar Pieces
Gorham 'Lily' trivets (more flowing, less geometric), Wallace 'Grand Baroque' trivets (heavier repoussé), or simpler International Silver 'Courtship' pieces.
Interesting Facts
The Frontenac pattern is often confused with the 'Lily' pattern by Gorham; however, Frontenac is distinguished by its more structured lattice work in serving pieces and its specific scalloped foliage border.