Mid-Century Modern Sterling Silver Long-Handled Iced Tea Spoon
Flatware (Iced Tea/Soda Spoon) · Likely American manufacturer (e.g., Gorham, Wallace, or International Silver) based on the flared handle profile and proportion. Exact maker requires a clear hallmark photo.
Pattern: Modernist/Spatulate Flare (Commonly found in patterns like 'Northland' or 'Contrast'). It features a slender stem transitioning to a distinctively flared, angular terminal.
Type
Flatware (Iced Tea/Soda Spoon)
Maker
Likely American manufacturer (e.g., Gorham, Wallace, or International Silver) based on the flared handle profile and proportion. Exact maker requires a clear hallmark photo.
Material
Likely Sterling Silver (.925) or high-quality Silver Plate based on the luster and light reflection. Typical for specialized iced tea service items.
Dimensions
Estimated 7.5 to 8.5 inches in length with an oval bowl; weight approximately 30-45 grams if sterling.
Description
This elegant long-handled spoon represents the height of mid-century suburban hospitality. Designed specifically for tall beverages, its slender neck and flared handle suggest a refined 'Starline' or 'Space Age' influence, common when households began to prioritize clean, easy-to-clean silver patterns for entertaining.
Key Features
Extenuated slender stem, flared spatulate handle, and deep oval bowl suitable for both stirring and scooping ice or garnishes.
Material & Composition
Likely Sterling Silver (.925) or high-quality Silver Plate based on the luster and light reflection. Typical for specialized iced tea service items.
Finish & Decoration
Polished mirror finish with understated minimalist decoration. The style is strictly Mid-Century Modern with an emphasis on form over ornamentation.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Marks are not visible in the image but would likely be located on the back of the neck or the upper part of the handle terminal, usually consisting of 'Sterling' or an EPNS mark.
Construction Details
Likely die-struck from a single sheet of metal, a common 20th-century production method for long-handled flatware to ensure structural rigidity.
Functional Features
Extra-long handle designed for stirring sugar or mint in tall Collins glasses or iced tea tumblers without the hand touching the glass rim or liquid.
Handle & Grip Details
Solid metal handle, integrated with the bowl. The terminal features a subtle 'fishtail' or flared widening for better grip balance.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-precision die striking with hand-buffed finish. The symmetry of the flare suggests a high-quality production mold.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic tapering of the neck and thickening at the stress points near the bowl, consistent with 20th-century American silver standards.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely United States, centered in Rhode Island or Connecticut manufacturing hubs which dominated the production of specialized sterling flatware in the mid-20th century.
Era & Period
Modernist / Mid-Century Modern (c. 1950-1970). The clean lines and lack of Victorian scrollwork are definitive indicators of this era.
Age Estimate
Produced circa 1955-1965 based on the aerodynamic profile and handle flare style.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the post-war shift toward casual but sophisticated dining and the rise of the 'iced beverage' culture in American social entertaining.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good. Visible micro-scratches consistent with light use and handling. The image shows a high polish level but slight blurring suggests reflection from a textured red surface.
Value Estimate
$35 - $65 USD for a single sterling piece; $5 - $15 USD if silver-plated. Value is significantly higher as part of a complete set.
Care & Maintenance
Hand wash with mild soap; use a high-quality cream polish like Wright's. Avoid dishwasher use to prevent 'silver disease' pitting on the long, thin stem.
Similar Pieces
Gorham 'Strasbourg' (more ornate), Wallace 'Grand Baroque' (heavy decor), or International 'Royal Danish' (similar modern feel but different terminal).
Interesting Facts
Iced tea spoons became essential in American 'bridge' and 'garden' parties in the mid-20th century, often sold as specialized add-ons to standard 45-piece sets.