F.B. Rogers Silver Co. Four-Footed Silverplate Sugar Bowl
Hollowware; specifically a sugar bowl, likely part of a nested tea or coffee service. · F.B. Rogers Silver Company. Founded in 1883 in Shelburne Falls, MA, later moved to Taunton. Known for high-volume high-quality silverplate, eventually becoming a division of National Silver Co. and International Silver Co.
Pattern: Unspecified traditional pattern; common F.B. Rogers lines included 'Victorian Rose' or 'Winthrop', but this lacks heavy chasing, suggesting a more mid-century minimalist or 'Paul Revere' style.
Type
Hollowware; specifically a sugar bowl, likely part of a nested tea or coffee service.
Maker
F.B. Rogers Silver Company. Founded in 1883 in Shelburne Falls, MA, later moved to Taunton. Known for high-volume high-quality silverplate, eventually becoming a division of National Silver Co. and International Silver Co.
Material
Silverplate on copper or base metal. The mark 'E.P.C.' or similar lead-in indicates Electroplated Copper. It contains no solid sterling silver.
Dimensions
Estimated 4-5 inches in height and 5-6 inches across the handles. Standard individual tea service size. Weight is approximately 300-450 grams depending on the base metal gauge.
Description
A classic American silverplated sugar bowl by the reputable F.B. Rogers company. This piece exemplifies the mid-century desire for formal dining aesthetics at an accessible price point. The vessel sits on four sturdy, stylized feet and features elegant scroll handles that offer both utility and a touch of traditional flair.
Key Features
The distinctive four-footed base and the clear 'F.B. ROGERS' block stamping on the underside are the primary identifiers.
Material & Composition
Silverplate on copper or base metal. The mark 'E.P.C.' or similar lead-in indicates Electroplated Copper. It contains no solid sterling silver.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish with a four-footed bracket base. It features simple scroll handles. The iridescent tarnish seen on the bottom is characteristic of silverplate aging.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'F.B. ROGERS' in block letters. Includes 'USA' and additional production codes/metal content marks (partially obscured, likely 'EP' for electroplate and 'LEAD MOUNT' or 'COPPER').
Construction Details
Machine-manufactured. The body is likely spun or die-struck, with the handles and four feet attached via silver soldering. The base is integrated.
Functional Features
Includes two side handles for stable lifting and four raised feet to protect tabletop surfaces from heat or condensation.
Handle & Grip Details
Dual cast-metal scroll handles, silver-plated to match the body, attached with visible solder points on the upper and lower curves.
Craftsmanship Details
Commercial grade manufacturing. The soldering on the handles shows some factory unevenness, but the overall form is symmetrical and durable for daily use.
Authentication Indicators
The maker's name is stamped directly into the metal in a font consistent with mid-century F.B. Rogers factory output. Lack of a 'Sterling' or '.925' mark confirms it is plated.
Origin & Manufacturing
USA, likely Taunton, Massachusetts. F.B. Rogers was a staple of the New England silver manufacturing hub.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (Approx. 1940-1970). The design is a simplified Neo-Classical or Colonial Revival style common in post-war American dining.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1960. The font of the 'F.B. ROGERS' stamp and the 'USA' designation are consistent with middle-of-the-century mass production.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Sunday Best' tradition of middle-class American families in the mid-20th century, where silverplated tea services were essential wedding gifts and status symbols for hosting guest.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. There is significant 'rainbow' tarnish/oxidation on the underside. Scratches are visible on the feet. Potential 'plate loss' where the base metal might be peeking through on high-friction areas.
Value Estimate
$10 - $25 USD. Silverplated hollowware from this era has low resale value unless part of a complete set in pristine condition.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild silver cream like Wright's. Avoid abrasive scrubbers which will strip the thin silver layer off the copper base. Dry immediately to prevent water spots.
Similar Pieces
Sheridan Silverplate sugar bowls or International Silver Co. 'Countess' pattern pieces; these often have more ornate floral borders compared to this simpler version.
Interesting Facts
F.B. Rogers was a major competitor to Gorham and Reed & Barton in the plated goods market; they chose a crown as their trademark logo (though not visible here) to give their items a 'royal' prestige.