International Silver Company 'Lord Saybrook' Pattern Sterling Silver Hollowware Plate/Small Tray
Hollowware (Small Plate or Tray) · International Silver Company (Meriden, Connecticut). Formed in 1898 as a conglomerate of major American silver manufacturers, including Meriden Britannia and Wilkens. It became one of the world's largest sterling and silverplate producers.
Pattern: 'Lord Saybrook' pattern, characterized by its traditional stepped rim and clean, classic lines. This pattern is part of the 'Historical' or 'Traditional' design series common in mid-20th century American production.
Type
Hollowware (Small Plate or Tray)
Maker
International Silver Company (Meriden, Connecticut). Formed in 1898 as a conglomerate of major American silver manufacturers, including Meriden Britannia and Wilkens. It became one of the world's largest sterling and silverplate producers.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Composed of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% copper for durability and strength.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter of 6 to 10 inches depending on the specific catalog number. Weight typically ranges from 150 to 300 grams (approx. 4.8 to 9.6 troy ounces) for this specific plate size.
Description
An elegant example of mid-20th century American silver craft. This sterling silver plate by International Silver features the refined 'Lord Saybrook' pattern, defined by its understated stepped rim and high mirror polish. Its minimalist design makes it a versatile piece for both traditional and contemporary table settings, serving equally well as a small appetizer tray, bread plate, or a decorative base for a pitcher.
Key Features
The 'International Sterling' maker's mark and the 'Lord Saybrook' pattern name are primary identifiers. The stepped, beveled rim is the signature design element of this specific collection.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Composed of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% copper for durability and strength.
Finish & Decoration
Bright-cut polish with a classic plain center. The design features a smooth surface with minimal ornamentation, focusing on the geometric profile of the stepped border which reflects a Federal or Neo-Classical revival style.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The image shows the 'IS' (International Silver) crown and shield logo, the word 'STERLING' (indicating 92.5% purity), the pattern name 'Lord Saybrook', and likely a numerical model number (often 'S18' or similar for this specific line).
Construction Details
Machine-spun and die-struck. The piece was formed from a sterling sheet via a high-speed spinning lathe and the rim contours were likely finished with a specialized die to ensure uniformity.
Functional Features
Flat central well for serving or display, with a raised rim designed to keep contents contained. No mechanical parts.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - This is a rimmed plate design without external handles.
Craftsmanship Details
Professional industrial quality. High consistency in wall thickness and rim symmetry, typical of high-end machine-assisted manufacturing from the American East Coast silver industry.
Authentication Indicators
Clear, deep-struck 'Sterling' and 'International Silver' marks. The wear pattern is consistent with soft sterling metal rather than a base metal. Proper hallmark alignment for the period.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States; specifically Meriden, Connecticut, the historic 'Silver City' and headquarters of International Silver Co.
Era & Period
Mid-Century American (Circa 1940-1960). The design is a 'Traditionalist' throwback popular during the post-WWII era for formal dining and bridal registries.
Age Estimate
Estimated production date c. 1945–1955 based on the style of the 'International Sterling' stamp and the peak popularity of the Lord Saybrook hollowware line.
Cultural Significance
Represents the suburban American 'Silver Culture' of the 1950s, where sterling silver was an essential component of social status and formal entertaining etiquette.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. The image shows significant tarnish with colorful light refraction (rainbow toning), indicating long-term atmospheric exposure. Visible surface scratches and micro-abrasions consistent with frequent use and stacking.
Value Estimate
$150 - $250 USD, largely dictated by current silver melt value plus a 20-30% premium for the brand and pattern condition.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild silver polish cream like Wright's or Hagerty. Avoid dishwasher use. Store in lead-free Pacific Silvercloth to prevent the heavy tarnish seen in the photo.
Similar Pieces
Gorham 'Strasbourg' hollowware (more ornate), Reed & Barton 'Francis I' (highly repoussé), or Tiffany & Co. 'Windham' (similar minimalist aesthetics but higher price point).
Interesting Facts
The 'Lord Saybrook' pattern was often sold as part of 'completer sets' for the more famous International Silver flatware patterns, serving as a staple in middle-to-upper-class American households during the 1950s.