Wm. A. Rogers Old English Reproduction Silver Plate Hollowware
Hollowware (likely a Tray, Platter, or Bowl based on the stamp orientation) · Wm. A. Rogers, an American silversmithing brand established in New York (c. 1890). The company was eventually acquired by Oneida Ltd. in 1929. The brand is historically associated with mass-market silver-plated goods characterized by durability and traditional design.
Pattern: Old English Reproduction; this collection was designed to mimic the heavy, ornate, and formal aesthetics of 18th and 19th-century British sterling silver. These patterns typically featured gadroon borders or shell-and-scroll motifs.
Type
Hollowware (likely a Tray, Platter, or Bowl based on the stamp orientation)
Maker
Wm. A. Rogers, an American silversmithing brand established in New York (c. 1890). The company was eventually acquired by Oneida Ltd. in 1929. The brand is historically associated with mass-market silver-plated goods characterized by durability and traditional design.
Material
Silver Plate (Electroplated Nickel Silver or EPNS). The lack of a 'Sterling' mark or 925 fineness stamp, combined with the brand's production history, confirms it is silver over a base metal.
Dimensions
Specifications depend on the specific form of model 6157 (often a larger serving tray), but typically these pieces weigh between 500g and 1500g depending on the size and base metal thickness.
Description
This piece is a classic example of American 'Old English Reproduction' silver plate by Wm. A. Rogers. It represents the mid-century desire to bring the grandeur of the British aristocracy to American households through affordable, high-quality electroplating. The underside shows a robust manufacturing style intended for heavy daily use.
Key Features
The 'Old English Reproduction' Gothic font stamp is the diagnostic feature of this specific line, signaling to buyers that the design follows traditional English silversmithing proportions.
Material & Composition
Silver Plate (Electroplated Nickel Silver or EPNS). The lack of a 'Sterling' mark or 925 fineness stamp, combined with the brand's production history, confirms it is silver over a base metal.
Finish & Decoration
Satin-polished surface visible on the underside with machine-turned finish marks. The pattern name suggests the upper surface would likely feature Georgian-style elements like scrolled edges or chased floral designs.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped with 'WM. A. ROGERS' in a decorative cartouche, 'Old English Reproduction' in Gothic/Blackletter font, the model number '6157', and a production mark '46'. The lack of hallmarks (lion passant, date letter) indicates it is American-made silver plate rather than British sterling.
Construction Details
Machine-manufactured through die-striking or spinning of industrial sheets. The base is flat with rounded edges, typical of mid-20th-century large-scale manufacturing processes.
Functional Features
Designed as a serving vessel for formal dining; likely features a flat central area for items and raised, reinforced edges for structural integrity.
Handle & Grip Details
Dependent on the specific 6157 model form; if a tray, it may feature cast handles soldered to the main body; if a bowl, it would likely be handled by its rim.
Craftsmanship Details
Functional machine quality. The stamping is clear and deep, indicating well-maintained dies. The surface finish is uniform, demonstrating efficient industrial production standards.
Authentication Indicators
The 'Wm. A. Rogers' mark is authentic and consistent with historical manufacturing records. The model number 6157 is a standard inventory identifier used during production tracking.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States, likely manufactured in Oneida, New York, or an associated factory in the Northeast.
Era & Period
Original designs were Mid-Century (c. 1930-1960) under the Oneida/Wm. A. Rogers banner, utilizing 'Old English' (Georgian/Victorian) revival aesthetics.
Age Estimate
Circa 1940-1960. The font styles and the specific numbering system are consistent with post-WWII American silver plate production.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the 20th-century expansion of leisure and formal dining etiquette to the American middle class, who sought pieces that looked like family heirlooms at a more accessible price point.
Condition Notes
Good condition. The underside shows 'swirl' marks or light scratches from cleaning and storage. There is no visible 'bleeding' (base metal showing through silver), though light tarnish is present in the recessed areas.
Value Estimate
$20 - $60 USD. Silver-plated hollowware currently holds low market value unless it is by a highly prestigious maker like Tiffany or Christofle. Value is largely decorative rather than based on metal content.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a non-abrasive silver cream (like Wright’s). Avoid over-polishing as the silver layer is thin and can be worn down to the brass or nickel base over time. Store in anti-tarnish bags.
Similar Pieces
International Silver 'Heritage' line, Reed & Barton 'Winthrop', or Wallace 'Baroque' silver plate versions. These often differ in the specific weight and the detail of the cast decorative borders.
Interesting Facts
Wm. A. Rogers was often confused with the more prestigious 'Rogers Bros.' company; to differentiate themselves, they often focused on 'Reproduction' lines that appealed to a traditionalist aesthetic.