Empire Silver Sterling Silver Teddy Bear Child's Hair Brush
Vanity Set (Child's Hair Brush) · Empire Silver Company. Founded in 1946 in Brooklyn, New York, Empire is a premier American manufacturer known for high-quality sterling and pewter giftware, particularly specializing in baby and bridal gifts.
Pattern: Teddy Bear / Nursery Motif. This was a popular mid-to-late 20th-century gift line that remains a classic staple for christenings and baby showers.
Type
Vanity Set (Child's Hair Brush)
Maker
Empire Silver Company. Founded in 1946 in Brooklyn, New York, Empire is a premier American manufacturer known for high-quality sterling and pewter giftware, particularly specializing in baby and bridal gifts.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) shell with natural or synthetic bristles. The silver part is a hollow-ware shell (frequently 'loaded' or filled with a stabilizing resin or wax to prevent denting) over a wooden or plastic bristle block.
Dimensions
Standard child's size: approximately 5.5 to 6 inches in length and 1.5 to 2 inches in width. Total weight typically ranges from 60-90 grams including the bristles and filler.
Description
A charming example of American nursery silver, this child's hair brush by Empire Silver features a sweet, three-dimensional teddy bear motif centered on a polished oval sterling silver head. The design is both nostalgic and functional, representing a traditional heirloom gift often given to celebrate a birth or baptism. Its mirror-like finish and whimsical subject matter make it a standout piece for the vanity or a cherished keepsake box.
Key Features
The central teddy bear motif is the primary identifier. High relief (repoussé) work without heavy engraving is typical of Empire's mid-market high-quality production.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) shell with natural or synthetic bristles. The silver part is a hollow-ware shell (frequently 'loaded' or filled with a stabilizing resin or wax to prevent denting) over a wooden or plastic bristle block.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish with a central repoussé (raised relief) design of a teddy bear. The bear features oxidized recessed areas to enhance the detail of the fur and facial features. The style is Traditional American Nursery.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Likely stamped 'Empire' and 'Sterling' on the narrow neck or the side of the brush head. American pieces of this era typically do not use European-style date letters or assay marks.
Construction Details
Manufactured using die-struck thin-gauge sterling silver sheet. The decorative bear is embossed via a mechanical press. The silver shell is then crimped or soldered over a base that holds the bristles.
Functional Features
Soft natural or nylon bristles intended for a child's delicate hair. The oval head provides a wide surface area for grooming, while the tapered handle is sized for an adult to hold while grooming a child.
Handle & Grip Details
Integral sterling silver handle, contoured with a wider end for grip. The handle is hollow but reinforced for structural integrity.
Craftsmanship Details
Excellent commercial-grade craftsmanship. The die-work for the bear is crisp, and the seam where the silver meets the bristle block is tight and well-finished, indicating high quality-control standards.
Authentication Indicators
The 'Empire' and 'Sterling' stamps (though not visible in the primary photo) are the industry standard. The weight and 'ping' of the silver shell are consistent with American-made hollow-handle silver products.
Origin & Manufacturing
Brooklyn, New York, USA. Manufactured using industrial silver factory techniques common in the New York/New England silver corridors.
Era & Period
Mid-Century to Contemporary (Late 20th Century). This design reflects the post-WWII American boom in specialized sterling silver gifts for babies and children.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960-1990. The specific style of the bear and the finish are characteristic of the later 20th-century production runs before Empire consolidated operations.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'silver spoon' tradition of gifting precious metals to newborns to symbolize family prosperity and the hope for a bright future.
Condition Notes
Very Good. Visible light surface scratches (swirls) from previous polishing are present. No major 'dings' or dents in the soft silver shell are visible. The bristles appear intact without significant shedding.
Value Estimate
$65 - $125 USD. Value is driven by the 'Empire' brand name and the total silver weight, though as a gift-ready item, the condition of the bristles is paramount.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft cloth and a non-abrasive silver cream like Wright's. Avoid submersing in water to protect the bristle block and internal filler. Store in a Pacific Silvercloth bag to prevent tarnish.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany & Co. 'Alphabet' brushes (higher price point, heavier gauge), Reed & Barton 'Teddy Bear' (different bear pose), and Gorham 'Lullaby' sterling baby line.
Interesting Facts
Empire Silver remains one of the few American companies that still manufactures sterling baby items in the USA, making older pieces like this highly collectable for those seeking 'Made in America' heritage.