International Silver Co. Grape Pattern Silver Plate Bottle Coaster or Small Plate
Hollowware (Wine Coaster / Tidbit Plate) · International Silver Company (ISC). Formed in 1898 in Meriden, Connecticut, through the merger of multiple independent silversmiths. They became the largest manufacturer of silver plate globally in the early 20th century.
Pattern: Grapevine / Vintage Pattern. This specific motif of high-relief grapes and leaves was a staple of ISC and its various subsidiaries (like 1847 Rogers Bros) throughout the mid-20th century.
Type
Hollowware (Wine Coaster / Tidbit Plate)
Maker
International Silver Company (ISC). Formed in 1898 in Meriden, Connecticut, through the merger of multiple independent silversmiths. They became the largest manufacturer of silver plate globally in the early 20th century.
Material
Electroplated Nickel Silver (EPNS) or Silver Plate over Copper. The item lacks the 'Sterling' stamp, and the high-relief cast border is characteristic of heavy Victorian-style silver plate production from the US.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter: 5 to 6 inches (12.7 to 15.2 cm). Weight is typical for heavy plate, likely around 150-250 grams depending on whether it has a wooden base insert (unlikely for this flat form).
Description
An ornate and classically styled silver-plated coaster featuring a rich border of cascading grapes and maple-like leaves. The central well is polished to a mirror finish, reflecting light elegantly during formal dining. This piece captures the opulence of the Gilded Age in a mid-century format, designed to protect table linens from condensation while adding a touch of botanical sophistication to the home bar or dining table.
Key Features
High-relief 'Grapevine' border; scalloped rim; mirror-finish central reservoir; heavy silver-plate construction typical of American quality manufacturing.
Material & Composition
Electroplated Nickel Silver (EPNS) or Silver Plate over Copper. The item lacks the 'Sterling' stamp, and the high-relief cast border is characteristic of heavy Victorian-style silver plate production from the US.
Finish & Decoration
Bright mirror polish finish with a heavy repoussé and cast-effect border featuring clusters of grapes and vine leaves. The style is Edwardian / Neo-Renaissance Revival, often referred to as 'Vintage' style.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Expected marks on the reverse would likely include 'IS' or 'International Silver Co.' and possibly 'Silverplate' or 'EPNS'. No marks are visible on the front. It does not carry British hallmarks.
Construction Details
The center is die-struck or spun from a sheet of base metal. The ornate grape border is likely cast separately and soldered to the rim, or stamped using a high-pressure drop-forged die to achieve the three-dimensional detail.
Functional Features
Slightly raised rim to contain moisture/condensation. If used as a wine coaster, the depression accommodates a standard wine bottle base. If used as a tidbit plate, the rim serves as a decorative handle.
Handle & Grip Details
This item lacks a distinct handle; the wide, textured grape border provides the primary grip surface. The texture helps hide fingerprints and provides a secure hold.
Craftsmanship Details
The machine-assisted casting of the border shows good detail and consistency. The transition between the flat well and the ornate rim is seamless, indicating high-quality mass-production standards.
Authentication Indicators
The design is a signature 'look' of International Silver. The lack of hallmark depth and the specific style of the casting are consistent with high-quality American silver plate rather than solid sterling.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America. Most likely manufactured in Meriden, Connecticut, by the International Silver Company factories.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Neo-Victorian (c. 1940-1960). While the style mimics 19th-century motifs, the crispness and finish are typical of the mid-20th-century revival of ornate dining pieces in American homes.
Age Estimate
Likely produced between 1945 and 1965. This was the peak era for the production of these high-relief 'Vintage' patterned silver-plated serving pieces.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the post-WWII American desire for formal, 'traditional' table settings that mimicked European aristocracy, making luxury-style dining accessories accessible to the middle class through silver plating.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good. Visible micro-scratches ('swirl marks') in the central polished area from previous cleaning. No significant 'bleeding' (base metal showing through silver) is visible in the photo, though light tarnish is present in the crevices of the grape clusters.
Value Estimate
$15.00 - $35.00 USD. Value is based on its utility and decorative appeal rather than metal content; these are common at estate sales and antique malls.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a non-abrasive silver cream (like Wright's) using a soft sponge. Use a soft toothbrush to reach tarnish inside the grape clusters. Avoid automatic dishwashers, which will strip the silver plating over time.
Similar Pieces
1847 Rogers Bros 'Vintage' pattern pieces; Sheridan Silver Co. grape-bordered trays; Wallace 'Grand Baroque' (similar in spirit but usually sterling).
Interesting Facts
The 'Grape' pattern has been one of the most enduring motifs in silver history, symbolizing abundance and hospitality. International Silver Co. used this motif across hundreds of items, from coffee urns to tiny sugar tongs.