Barker Brothers Sterling Silver Small Bowl/Dish
Hollowware (Small Bowl/Sweetmeat Dish) · Barker Brothers (BB Silver Ltd). Founded in 1801 in Birmingham, England, it was one of the premier British silversmithing firms known for high-quality domestic silver and ecclesiastical pieces.
Pattern: Classic Plain Circular Design; specific pattern names were rarely assigned to utilitarian hollowware of this period, preferring functional elegance.
Type
Hollowware (Small Bowl/Sweetmeat Dish)
Maker
Barker Brothers (BB Silver Ltd). Founded in 1801 in Birmingham, England, it was one of the premier British silversmithing firms known for high-quality domestic silver and ecclesiastical pieces.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Composition is 92.5% silver and 7.5% copper, conforming to the British Sterling standard.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter: 10-15 cm (4-6 inches). Estimated weight: 80 - 150 grams (approx. 2.5 - 4.8 troy ounces) depending on wall thickness.
Description
This piece is a classic example of British sterling silver utility from the late 1930s. Manufactured by the renowned Barker Brothers, the bowl features a clean, unadorned circular form that emphasizes the inherent luster of the metal. Its simplicity makes it a versatile addition to either a contemporary or traditional table setting, reflecting the high standards of Birmingham's silversmithing tradition during the mid-20th century.
Key Features
Distinct 'B.B.S Ltd' maker's mark and clear 1937 Birmingham hallmarks. The absence of engraving or monograms increases its versatility for collectors.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Composition is 92.5% silver and 7.5% copper, conforming to the British Sterling standard.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish with a simple, undecorated surface typical of the mid-20th century minimalist aesthetic. Features a rolled or slightly flared rim.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The item bears a full set of British hallmarks in the center of the base: 1. 'B.B.S Ltd' (Maker's mark for Barker Brothers Silver Ltd); 2. Anchor (Assay mark for Birmingham); 3. Lion Passant (English standard mark for Sterling Silver); 4. Date Letter 'N' (Indicates the year 1937 in the Birmingham cycle).
Construction Details
Spun or raised silver construction. The perfectly circular concentric marks visible under the tarnish suggest a lathe-spinning process followed by hand-polishing.
Functional Features
Planar bottom for stability; intended for serving nuts, candies, or as a decorative trinket dish.
Handle & Grip Details
None (Handle-less bowl design).
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial craftsmanship. The symmetry and evenness of the rim indicate expert spinning, while the punch-depth of the hallmarks suggests a solid, non-weighted piece of silver.
Authentication Indicators
The hallmarks are authentic, well-struck, and consistent in spacing and style for Barker Brothers' 1937 output. The wear patterns are consistent with a genuine antique silver dish.
Origin & Manufacturing
Birmingham, England. Produced in the historic Jewellery Quarter where Barker Brothers maintained their substantial Unity Works factory.
Era & Period
Late Interwar Period / George VI era (1937). The design reflects the transition from Art Deco geometric simplicity to mid-century modern utility.
Age Estimate
1937 (Precisely dated by the Birmingham 'N' date letter).
Cultural Significance
Represents the everyday luxury of the British middle class in the late 1930s, where silver remained a standard gift for weddings and anniversaries.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Shows heavy, uneven oxidation and 'pepper spot' tarnish. Surface has micro-scratching consistent with age. No major dents or structural cracks are visible in the photograph. Grade: Good (Pending professional polish).
Value Estimate
$150 - $250 USD, depending on the current spot price of silver and the buyer's preference for the maker.
Care & Maintenance
Requires hand polishing with a high-quality silver cream (e.g., Wright's or Hagerty). Avoid abrasive dips due to the heavy spot-tarnish, which could lead to pitting if treated too harshly.
Similar Pieces
Similar bowls by Mappin & Webb or Walker & Hall. The key difference lies in the specific maker's mark and the slightly heavier gauge of silver often favored by Barker Brothers.
Interesting Facts
Barker Brothers was a prolific exhibitor at the British Industries Fair. Pieces from 1937 are particularly collectible as they coincide with the coronation year of King George VI.