Mid-20th Century Quadruple-Footed Silver Plate Sugar Bowl or Creamer Base
Hollowware (Sugar Bowl / Creamer) · Likely American Silver Plate Manufacturer (e.g., Gorham, Reed & Barton, or International Silver Co.)
Pattern: Undetermined plain/minimalist pattern, consistent with mid-century hollowware mass production
Type
Hollowware (Sugar Bowl / Creamer)
Maker
Likely American Silver Plate Manufacturer (e.g., Gorham, Reed & Barton, or International Silver Co.)
Material
Silver Plate (Electroplated Nickel Silver - EPNS); Base metal likely nickel silver or brass
Dimensions
Estimated 3-4 inches in diameter; approximately 150-250 grams (weight primarily from base metal)
Description
A globular, silver-plated hollowware vessel resting on four flared feet. The piece currently exhibits heavy oxidation with rainbow-hued sulfidation, typical of silver plate stored in high-sulfur environments. The design is utilitarian, favoring smooth curves over engraved ornamentation, making it a classic example of mid-century domestic serving ware.
Key Features
Four-point spade feet, globular spun-metal body, heavy multi-color tarnish, lack of surface engraving
Material & Composition
Silver Plate (Electroplated Nickel Silver - EPNS); Base metal likely nickel silver or brass
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish currently obscured by heavy multi-colored tarnish; features four simple applied spade-style feet
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not visible in image; likely stamped on the bottom with 'EPNS', 'Quadruple Plate', or a maker's crest
Construction Details
Machine-spun body with mass-produced cast feet attached via industrial solder joints
Functional Features
Four-point stance for stability; globular body designed to hold granular sugar or liquid cream
Handle & Grip Details
Handles not visible, suggesting this is a waste bowl or handles were removed/missing from the sides
Craftsmanship Details
Mass-produced quality; evidence of machine spinning on the body and industrial-grade soldering on the feet.
Authentication Indicators
Solder lines at foot junctions are consistent with mid-range silver plate; tarnish pattern suggests an electroplated surface rather than solid silver
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely United States or England; industrial factory production utilizing electroplating baths
Era & Period
Modern Era / Mid-Century (c. 1940-1960), characterized by a transition from ornate to smooth, functional forms
Age Estimate
Circa 1950; based on the simplicity of the foot design and the bulbous spun shape
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-war boom in affordable 'fine' dining sets for the middle-class home, where silver plate provided the look of luxury without the cost of sterling.
Condition Notes
Fair to Poor; significant tarnish and potential carbon spots. Possible plating wear on the feet. Requires a deep chemical dip or heavy hand polishing to assess surface scratches.
Value Estimate
$5 - $15 USD (Decorative/Utility value only; minimal intrinsic metal value)
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water first, then use a non-abrasive silver foam like Wright's. Avoid silver dips as they can damage the base metal if the plating is thin.
Similar Pieces
Sheffield Plate footed bowls (usually heavier with copper bleed), Sterling versions by Tiffany (would have crisper foot detail and hallmarks)
Interesting Facts
The 'rainbow tarnish' visible is actually a thin-film interference effect caused by specific thicknesses of silver sulfide buildup.