International Silver Co. DeepSilver 'Woodsong' Pattern Silverplate Teaspoon
Flatware - Teaspoon · International Silver Company, based in Meriden, Connecticut. Formed in 1898 as a corporation of major New England silversmiths, it became the largest manufacturer of silver of its time.
Pattern: Woodsong pattern, introduced in 1957. Part of the 'DeepSilver' collection, which was marketed for its extra-heavy silver plating at wear points.
Type
Flatware - Teaspoon
Maker
International Silver Company, based in Meriden, Connecticut. Formed in 1898 as a corporation of major New England silversmiths, it became the largest manufacturer of silver of its time.
Material
Silver plate on a nickel-copper base. Marketed as 'DeepSilver,' featuring an exceptionally thick layer of silver and inlaid silver at the back of the bowl and handle for durability.
Dimensions
Standard teaspoon length approximately 6 to 6.25 inches. Weight typically ranges between 30 and 40 grams.
Description
A classic example of Mid-Century American flatware, the Woodsong pattern by International Silver offers a clean, organic aesthetic. Its streamlined handle and delicate leaf motif captured the post-war trend toward simplified nature-inspired decor. As a 'DeepSilver' piece, it was built for the modern suburban family as a luxury alternative to standard silverplate.
Key Features
Asymmetrical leaf motif at the handle tip, tapered neck, and the 'DeepSilver' reinforced plating technology that prevented 'heel wear' on the back of the bowl.
Material & Composition
Silver plate on a nickel-copper base. Marketed as 'DeepSilver,' featuring an exceptionally thick layer of silver and inlaid silver at the back of the bowl and handle for durability.
Finish & Decoration
Polished mirror finish with leaf-inspired organic decorative motifs. Style is Mid-Century Modern with stylized botanical elements at the terminal and neck.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Likely stamped 'IS' or 'International DeepSilver' on the reverse side of the handle. May also include the 'Woodsong' pattern name stamp.
Construction Details
Machine-manufactured through die-striking. This mass-production technique ensured consistency across thousands of pieces during the 1950s and 60s.
Functional Features
Standard teaspoon bowl designed for stirring tea or coffee and consuming desserts or cereal. Features a reinforced plating area at wear points.
Handle & Grip Details
Solid metal handle with a flared terminal. The 'Woodsong' design features a distinctive asymmetrical leaf/grain motif providing a tactile grip.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial craftsmanship. While machine-made, the die-work for the Woodsong pattern is crisp, showing clear definition in the stylized leaves.
Authentication Indicators
The pattern is a well-documented mid-century design. The DeepSilver stamp is a primary indicator of authenticity for this specific line of International Silver.
Origin & Manufacturing
Manufactured in Meriden, Connecticut, USA. International Silver Co. was a powerhouse of the American silver industry in the 20th century.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (1945-1970). The design reflects the organic modernism popular in the late 1950s, moving away from ornate Victorian florals.
Age Estimate
Circa 1957-1970. The pattern was most popular immediately following its introduction in the late 1950s.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the 1950s American middle-class ideal: high-quality, durable household goods that emulated the look of solid silver (sterling) at an accessible price point.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good. Visible light surface scratches (swirls) from cleaning. No significant 'plate loss' visible, though tarnish is present in the crevices of the pattern.
Value Estimate
$3 - $8 USD per teaspoon. Value is mainly determined by users looking to complete or replace pieces in their family set rather than investment value.
Care & Maintenance
Hand wash with mild detergent; use a reputable silver cream like Wright's for polishing. Avoid dishwasher use to prevent 'heat tinting' of the silver plate.
Similar Pieces
Oneida Community 'Affection' pattern or Gorham 'Stepping Stones.' Distinguishable by the specific leaf shape and the 'IS' hallmark versus Oneida's 'OC' marks.
Interesting Facts
International Silver marketed Woodsong as 'The Silver with a Secret' because of the extra silver inlays, targeting young brides who wanted silver that would last a lifetime without the cost of sterling.