International Silver Co. Perforated Sterling Silver Footed Bon Bon Basket / Petit Four Tray
Hollowware (Service Piece / Bon Bon Dish) · International Silver Company (Meriden, Connecticut), a major American silver conglomerate formed in 1898 through the merger of many top New England silversmiths. They are known for both luxury sterling and accessible silverplate.
Pattern: Pierced Lattice Scroll (Generic Pattern Line), early-to-mid 20th century production.
Type
Hollowware (Service Piece / Bon Bon Dish)
Maker
International Silver Company (Meriden, Connecticut), a major American silver conglomerate formed in 1898 through the merger of many top New England silversmiths. They are known for both luxury sterling and accessible silverplate.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). The base is solid sterling, with no internal weighting visible from this angle. The piece appears to be made entirely of precious metal rather than silver plate.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter: 6-7 inches (15-18 cm). Estimated weight: 120-180 grams (approx. 4-6 troy ounces) based on standard gauge for this size of American sterling hollowware.
Description
This is a charming example of American sterling silver hollowware. The piece features a solid, unadorned central well that contrasts beautifully with an intricate, machine-pierced lattice border. The outer rim is finished with a rhythmic scalloped edge, providing a lace-like visual quality common in formal mid-century tea settings. It serves as an elegant vessel for candies, chocolates, or small baked goods.
Key Features
Wide reticulated lattice border, scalloped edge profile, and the specific International Silver hallmark. The lack of a monogram in the center increases its general appeal for modern buyers.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). The base is solid sterling, with no internal weighting visible from this angle. The piece appears to be made entirely of precious metal rather than silver plate.
Finish & Decoration
The item features a bright-polished surface with a heavy reticulated (pierced) lattice border. The outer edge is scalloped with scroll-like flourishes. The design reflects a mixture of Neoclassical and Revival styles common in American domestic silver.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'STERLING' and likely 'INTERNATIONAL SILVER CO.' or 'IS' mark (visible as a small horizontal stamp near the top edge of the base in the image). It may include a pattern number (e.g., 120 or 250).
Construction Details
Manufactured using a mechanical die-cut process for the lattice work. The central plate is likely spun or pressed, and the reticulated rim is die-stamped. The low foot-ring is soldered to the base.
Functional Features
Low circular foot to provide elevation off the table surfaces. The pierced rim prevents moisture buildup if serving warm items like petit fours or candies.
Handle & Grip Details
None. This is a low-profile dish intended to be grasped by the scalloped rim rather than traditional handles.
Craftsmanship Details
The piercing is clean with no burrs, indicating high-quality industrial dies. The soldering of the foot is tight and professional, characteristic of International Silver's mid-tier sterling lines.
Authentication Indicators
The 'STERLING' stamp indicates legal compliance with US silver standards. The wear patterns on the base are consistent with a piece that has sat on a dining table or sideboard for decades.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America, specifically Meriden, Connecticut—once known as the 'Silver City' due to the dominance of the International Silver Co. factories.
Era & Period
Early 20th Century (1920-1940), often referred to as 'The Golden Age of American Sterling' when mass-market luxury goods were popularized for mid-level social entertaining.
Age Estimate
Circa 1930-1950. The stamping style and the mechanical precision of the lattice suggest mid-century production.
Cultural Significance
Represents the formalization of American middle-class social rituals, where specific silver pieces were required for every course, including the 'Bon Bon' or sweets course.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. There is significant surface scratching on the underside (swirl marks from abrasive cleaning) and visible tarnish (sulfide oxidation) in the recesses of the pierced lattice. The rim shows slight unevenness/warping, typical for thin-gauge pierced pieces.
Value Estimate
$150 - $250. Value is primarily tied to the silver melt weight (currently ~$30/oz) plus a premium for the maker and reticulated craftsmanship.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a non-abrasive cream like Wright's Silver Cream. A soft-bristled toothbrush is essential for removing tarnish from the small lattice holes. Avoid 'silver dips' which can strip the protective finish.
Similar Pieces
Wallace Grand Baroque pierced dishes (denser, more ornate), Gorham reticulated nut dishes (often heavier gauge), and various electroplated (EPNS) versions which would be marked 'Silverplate' rather than 'Sterling'.
Interesting Facts
International Silver was the largest silver company in the world at one point, consuming more silver annually than the US Mint for certain production periods.