Wm. A. Rogers Pierced Silver Plate over Copper Bon-Bon Dish, Pattern 8807
Hollowware (Bon-Bon Dish, Nut Bowl, or Petit Four Tray) · Wm. A. Rogers, a brand of Oneida Ltd. The company was founded in Canada/USA in the late 19th century and became one of the most prolific manufacturers of silver-plated tableware, known for accessibility and traditional designs.
Pattern: Pattern number 8807; features a Victorian-Revival style with scrolling foliate pierced openwork and a scalloped rim. It is a mass-produced commercial pattern typical of mid-20th century bridal registries.
Type
Hollowware (Bon-Bon Dish, Nut Bowl, or Petit Four Tray)
Maker
Wm. A. Rogers, a brand of Oneida Ltd. The company was founded in Canada/USA in the late 19th century and became one of the most prolific manufacturers of silver-plated tableware, known for accessibility and traditional designs.
Material
Silver Plate over Copper (E.P. Copper). The base metal is solid copper, which has been electroplated with a thin layer of fine silver. Copper was often chosen as a base for mid-tier hollowware because it is easy to form and looks attractive even as the plating wears down.
Dimensions
Approximately 6-7 inches in diameter and 1.5 inches in height. Weight is estimated at 150-250 grams; copper-based plated items feel significantly heavier and 'sturdier' than modern plastic or thin aluminum alternatives.
Description
A charming mid-century silver-plated bon-bon dish by Wm. A. Rogers. This piece features a deeply reflective silver surface over a warm copper base. The high-relief piercing creates a delicate lace-like appearance along the flared rim, making it a perfect accent piece for a traditional tea service or holiday table. Its sturdy construction ensures it remains functional despite its delicate look.
Key Features
Characteristic 'WM. A. ROGERS' block lettering; 'E.P. Copper' designation; intricate machine-stamped floral piercing; scalloped edge; circular pedestal foot.
Material & Composition
Silver Plate over Copper (E.P. Copper). The base metal is solid copper, which has been electroplated with a thin layer of fine silver. Copper was often chosen as a base for mid-tier hollowware because it is easy to form and looks attractive even as the plating wears down.
Finish & Decoration
Mirror-polished silver finish with machine-stamped piercing (openwork). The rim is scalloped with a scrolled filigree aesthetic. The design mimics expensive hand-chased late Victorian or Rococo Revival pieces but is executed through industrial stamping.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'WM. A. ROGERS' (in a block font), 'E.P. COPPER', '8807', and a small '7' or 'Z' maker's mark. These marks confirm the manufacturer, the base metal (Electroplated Copper), and the specific catalog production number.
Construction Details
Machine-stamped and die-cut from a sheet of copper. The piercing was achieved using a heavy industrial press. The footed base appears to be soldered to the main bowl body. This is a classic example of 20th-century industrial mass production.
Functional Features
Used for serving small candies (bon-bons), nuts, or tea biscuits. The pierced sides allow for airflow/cooling but are primarily decorative. The wide rim allows it to be picked up easily from a dining table.
Handle & Grip Details
No handles; the scalloped and pierced rim serves as the primary grip area for the user.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial manufacturing. The piercing is clean with no jagged edges (burrs), and the plating is thick enough to have survived decades of use without significant peeling, indicating a professional electro-deposition process.
Authentication Indicators
The stamps are clear, deep, and consistent with known Oneida/Wm. A. Rogers markings. The weight-to-size ratio is correct for electroplated copper. The wear pattern on the bottom rim is consistent with age and shelf use.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States or Canada, produced by the Oneida Ltd. factories. These were fabricated in large assembly-line settings designed for the middle-class consumer market.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Traditional (c. 1940-1960). While the style is Victorian/Rococo Revival, the manufacturing techniques and 'E.P. Copper' marking system are indicative of the mid-20th century American market.
Age Estimate
Circa 1945-1955. The font of the stamp and the specific '8807' series are typical of post-WWII American household goods.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of 'fine dining' in the mid-20th century, where silver-plated items allowed middle-class households to emulate the formal table settings of the aristocracy at a fraction of the cost.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good condition. There is minor surface scratching ('spidering') consistent with polishing. Very slight 'bleeding' (copper showing through) may be present on high points of the piercing. No significant dents or structural deformations visible.
Value Estimate
$10.00 - $25.00 USD. Value is based on decorative utility rather than silver content, as silver plate has negligible scrap value. Prevalent in antique malls and thrift stores.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with mild soap and water. Polish only when necessary using a non-abrasive silver cream (like Wright’s). Avoid 'silver dips' which can strip the thin plating and damage the copper core. Store in a dry place to prevent 'pitting'.
Similar Pieces
Gorham 'Chantilly' plated dishes (higher price point), International Silver 'Silver City' patterns, or Sheridan Silver Co. pierced trays. The main difference is the specific arrangement of the piercing and the base metal (some use brass/nickel instead of copper).
Interesting Facts
Wm. A. Rogers is often confused with the many other 'Rogers' silver brands (like 1847 Rogers Bros). The proliferation of the Rogers name led to numerous legal battles in the 19th century until many were consolidated under the International Silver or Oneida umbrellas.