Mid-Century Floral Pattern Sterling Silver Tablespoon
Flatware - Tablespoon/Serving Spoon · Unknown American Silversmith (Potentially International Silver Co. or Gorham Manufacturing Co.)
Pattern: Undetermined Mid-Century Floral Repoussé Pattern; common in the 1940s-1950s Americana style
Type
Flatware - Tablespoon/Serving Spoon
Maker
Unknown American Silversmith (Potentially International Silver Co. or Gorham Manufacturing Co.)
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) or high-quality Silver Plate (EPNS); exact composition requires hallmark verification
Dimensions
Estimated length 7.5 to 8.5 inches; estimated weight 45 to 65 grams depending on thickness and solid vs. plated construction
Description
A classic examples of mid-20th-century silver flatware, featuring a deeply polished oval bowl and a handle adorned with delicate floral scrollwork. This piece represents the post-war boom in 'Sunday Best' dining sets.
Key Features
Tapered handle profile, scalloped floral terminal, and deep-set bowl suitable for serving rather than individual dining
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) or high-quality Silver Plate (EPNS); exact composition requires hallmark verification
Finish & Decoration
Mirror polish bowl with repoussé floral and leaf motifs on the handle tip; stylistic indicators of Neoclassical revival
Hallmarks & Stamps
Likely located on the reverse of the neck; expected to find 'STERLING' or a manufacturer's mark like a lion/anchor/G (Gorham) or knight's head
Construction Details
Die-struck from a single sheet of metal; machine-finished with hand-polished highlights
Functional Features
Large oval bowl designed for serving vegetables or side dishes; tapered neck for balance
Handle & Grip Details
Solid metal handle with a flared terminal; integrated construction with no separate joints
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality die-work with clean definition in the floral elements; consistent thickness throughout the neck to prevent bending
Authentication Indicators
Symmetry in the die-struck pattern and the specific reflective quality of the bowl surface; requires a 'Sterling' stamp to distinguish from plated versions
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely United States (Providence, RI or Meriden, CT), reflecting the peak of American industrial silver production
Era & Period
Mid-Century (1940-1960); characterized by a blend of traditional floral elements with streamlined handle shapes
Age Estimate
Circa 1945-1955 based on the floral motif style and handle silhouette
Cultural Significance
Reflects the formalization of the American middle-class domestic life and the transition from hand-wrought luxury to high-quality industrial craftsmanship
Condition Notes
Very Good; exhibits surface scratches (patina) consistent with age and use; light tarnish visible in the ornate handle crevices
Value Estimate
$40 - $85 USD if Sterling (based on melt value plus premium); $5 - $15 USD if Silver Plated
Care & Maintenance
Hand wash with mild soap; use a high-quality silver cream like Wright's for the handle to avoid building up thick black sulfide in the pattern
Similar Pieces
International Silver 'Prelude' or Gorham 'Chantilly' (though this piece has a more pronounced flared tip than Chantilly)
Interesting Facts
During the mid-20th century, silver patterns like this were often registered as bridal gifts, leading to the massive production of matching sets for suburban households