Davenport & Co. Sterling Silver Flatware Piece
Flatware - Serving Piece or Utensil Handle · Davenport & Co., historic American or British maker signified by the D&H maker's mark.
Pattern: Unspecified traditional or utilitarian flatware pattern.
Type
Flatware - Serving Piece or Utensil Handle
Maker
Davenport & Co., historic American or British maker signified by the D&H maker's mark.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) as indicated by standard purity marks.
Dimensions
Standard flatware proportions; exact weight and dimensions require physical measurement.
Description
An elegant sterling silver flatware piece featuring a classic tapered handle and crisp, well-struck hallmarks including the 'D & H' maker's mark and assay symbols. The clean lines and durable construction reflect traditional silversmithing standards.
Key Features
Distinct 'D & H' maker's mark paired with official assay punches on a solid sterling silver handle.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) as indicated by standard purity marks.
Finish & Decoration
Polished smooth finish with a plain tapered handle design, typical of utility or traditional flatware.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Clear punch marks showing a crowned leopard or lion head duty/assay stamp, a purity symbol, and the maker's initials 'D & H'.
Construction Details
Die-struck construction typical of late 19th to mid-20th-century commercial silverware manufacturing.
Functional Features
Designed for standard dining or serving use with an ergonomic tapered handle grip.
Handle & Grip Details
Solid silver tapered flat handle providing a balanced and secure grip.
Craftsmanship Details
Clean edges, uniform thickness, and precisely struck hallmarks reflecting competent commercial-grade silversmithing.
Authentication Indicators
Deeply struck, crisp punch marks showing standard assay symbols and maker initials, which strongly indicate authentic period production.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely British or American manufacturing origin based on standard assay and maker punch styles.
Era & Period
Late Victorian to Mid-20th Century based on hallmark style and stamp characteristics.
Age Estimate
Circa 1880 - 1940, inferred from the hallmark typography and punch layout.
Cultural Significance
Represents the widespread adoption of standardized hallmarking and quality controls in silver production during the height of formal dining culture.
Condition Notes
Very good antique or vintage condition with minor surface hairline scratches consistent with careful use and polishing.
Value Estimate
Moderate market value dependent on exact weight, piece type, and current precious metal spot prices, typically ranging from $30 to $150 USD.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft microfiber cloth and specialized silver polish such as Wright's Silver Cream. Store in an anti-tarnish pouch.
Similar Pieces
Standard Victorian and Edwardian sterling flatware pieces by contemporaneous regional makers.
Interesting Facts
Maker's marks involving multi-letter partnerships like D&H often represent regional silversmithing syndicates or family firms from the Victorian era.