International Silver Co. 'Adoration' Pattern Silver Plated Teaspoon
Flatware - Teaspoon · International Silver Co. (founded 1898 in Meriden, CT). This piece carries the '1847 Rogers Bros' brand mark, their most famous and prestigious silver plate line known for heavy plating and high-quality designs.
Pattern: 'Adoration' pattern, introduced in 1939. This was a highly popular Mid-Century bridal pattern that remained in production for decades due to its elegant transitional style.
Type
Flatware - Teaspoon
Maker
International Silver Co. (founded 1898 in Meriden, CT). This piece carries the '1847 Rogers Bros' brand mark, their most famous and prestigious silver plate line known for heavy plating and high-quality designs.
Material
Electroplated Nickel Silver (EPNS). The base is a copper-nickel-zinc alloy, electrolytically coated with a layer of fine silver. This is indicated by the absence of a 'Sterling' mark and the presence of the trade name.
Dimensions
Approximately 6.125 inches (15.5 cm) in length. Standard teaspoon weight for this era is approximately 30-35 grams. It is a standard individual place setting size.
Description
An elegant example of 20th-century American table service, this Adoration teaspoon showcases the sophisticated simplicity of late 1930s design. The pattern is noted for its upward-sweeping floral and scroll motif that seems to drape over the handle like a fabric, creating a sense of movement. As a piece from the 1847 Rogers Bros line, it represents the pinnacle of mass-produced American silver plate, designed to offer the luxury look of sterling to the growing middle class of the post-Depression era.
Key Features
Asymmetrical floral 'wrap' at the handle tip, diagonal line work, '1847 Rogers Bros' branding, and the distinctly 1940s-style floral clusters.
Material & Composition
Electroplated Nickel Silver (EPNS). The base is a copper-nickel-zinc alloy, electrolytically coated with a layer of fine silver. This is indicated by the absence of a 'Sterling' mark and the presence of the trade name.
Finish & Decoration
Mirror polish with oxidized recesses in the handle design. The decoration features a 'wrapped' or scrolled leaf and floral motif that sweeps diagonally across the handle tip, characteristic of the Late Art Deco and early Organic Modern transition.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The reverse of the handle is stamped '1847 ROGERS BROS.' followed by 'IS' (International Silver) and 'ADORATION'. The '1847' refers to the year the Rogers brothers perfected the plating process, not the manufacturing date.
Construction Details
Machine-manufactured through die-striking. The spoon was stamped from a blank under high pressure, then trimmed, edges smoothed, and electroplated with silver. The bowl and handle are one continuous piece (solid construction).
Functional Features
Ovoid bowl for multipurpose dining use. The design includes a reinforced 'bridge' area (neck) to prevent bending and a balanced handle for ergonomic grip.
Handle & Grip Details
Solid metal flat handle, flared toward the terminal. The ornamentation is concentrated at the tip and slightly down the side, allowing for a comfortable, smooth grip in the palm and fingers.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality die-work with deep, crisp detailing in the floral motif. The plating is 'triple' or 'heavy' grade, typical of the Rogers Bros brand, ensuring the piece has better weight and luster than cheaper supermarket-grade plating.
Authentication Indicators
Clear, authentic manufacturer stamping; pattern details exactly match archival catalogs for Adoration (1939); wear patterns are consistent with authentic silver plate rather than newer stainless steel replicas.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States; Meriden, Connecticut. International Silver Co. was at one time the world's largest manufacturer of silver and silver plate.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern / Late Art Deco transition. Produced starting in 1939, it reflects the 'Streamline Moderne' influence with its clean lines and asymmetrical floral sweep.
Age Estimate
Circa 1939-1950. The specific 'IS' logo and the high relief of the floral motif are typical of mid-20th-century production runs of this pattern.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Golden Age' of American silver plate, where industrial manufacturing met high-style design, making formal dining etiquette accessible to a wider demographic during the mid-20th century.
Condition Notes
Good condition overall. Visible heavy oxidation/tarnish (brown/gold tones) which is superficial and can be cleaned. There appears to be minor surface scratching ('heel wear') on the back of the bowl from contact with tabletops. No significant 'bleeding' (base metal showing through).
Value Estimate
$3 - $8 USD. While a classic pattern, silver plated teaspoons are common and usually sold as part of sets or for pattern matching/replacement services.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild silver polish like Wright’s Silver Cream. Avoid abrasive pads which can strip the silver plating. Store in a tarnish-resistant cloth or chest to prevent the heavy yellow/brown oxidation seen in the image.
Similar Pieces
Oneida 'Coronation' (similar crown/floral motifs), Gorham 'Chantilly' (the sterling version of this aesthetic), or International Silver 'First Love' (a more traditional floral alternative).
Interesting Facts
The Adoration pattern was heavily marketed to WWII brides. Because silver was a strategic metal, production of such patterns was sometimes limited or promoted as a lasting investment for families during uncertain times.