Reed & Barton Hopewell Plate Silver Plated Flatware Piece
Flatware · Reed & Barton, an esteemed American silverware manufacturer founded in 1824 in Taunton, Massachusetts. Known for exceptional craftsmanship, they became one of the dominant silversmiths in the United States, producing both fine sterling and high-quality silver plate.
Pattern: Hopewell Plate
Type
Flatware
Maker
Reed & Barton, an esteemed American silverware manufacturer founded in 1824 in Taunton, Massachusetts. Known for exceptional craftsmanship, they became one of the dominant silversmiths in the United States, producing both fine sterling and high-quality silver plate.
Material
Silver Plated over a base metal alloy, typically nickel silver or white metal, as indicated by the 'Hopewell Plate' stamp.
Dimensions
Standard sizing for an American silver plate flatware service piece, with a balanced weight typical of commercial electroplated nickel silver.
Description
An exquisite silver-plated flatware piece by the renowned maker Reed & Barton in their Hopewell Plate line. The handle showcases deep, rich chasing with classic Rococo scrolls and floral details, blending opulent historical style with durable everyday utility.
Key Features
Distinctive 'REED & BARTON' maker's stamp, 'HOPEWELL PLATE' pattern identification, and high-relief scrollwork handle design.
Material & Composition
Silver Plated over a base metal alloy, typically nickel silver or white metal, as indicated by the 'Hopewell Plate' stamp.
Finish & Decoration
Elaborate Rococo Revival style with heavily chased scrollwork, floral motifs, and ornate cartouches on the handle terminal, complemented by a mirror polish on the silver-plated surfaces.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Clearly stamped with the maker's name 'REED & BARTON' flanked by small symbols, alongside the pattern name 'HOPEWELL PLATE', typical of American silver-plated flatware manufacturing marks.
Construction Details
Die-struck and machine-manufactured with hand-finished decorative detailing on the handle terminal, combining industrial efficiency with traditional aesthetic appeal.
Functional Features
Designed for formal dining table service, providing durability and elegance for everyday or special occasion use.
Handle & Grip Details
Solid metal handle featuring an ornate, contoured profile with high-relief scrollwork that offers both a decorative focal point and a secure grip.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality die-stamping combined with crisp, deep relief detailing on the handle, demonstrating Reed & Barton's commitment to high standards in silver-plated wares.
Authentication Indicators
Authentic factory stampings ('REED & BARTON' and 'HOPEWELL PLATE') show crisp indentation characteristic of authentic late 19th- or early 20th-century American production.
Origin & Manufacturing
Made in Taunton, Massachusetts, USA, by Reed & Barton, reflecting the peak of American industrial silversmithing and mass production capabilities.
Era & Period
Victorian Era (1837-1901) or early 20th-century revival, reflecting the enduring popularity of ornate, historicist design motifs in American dining culture.
Age Estimate
Late 19th to early 20th century, circa 1880-1920, based on the typography of the maker's mark and the ornate Rococo revival styling.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of elegant dining in America, allowing middle-class households to enjoy ornate, high-status tableware designs previously reserved for the wealthy elite.
Condition Notes
Very Good vintage condition with minor surface micro-scratches and slight tarnish commensurate with age and handling. Silver plating remains largely intact with no visible base metal bleed-through.
Value Estimate
Moderate collectible value, typically ranging from $15 to $50 depending on the specific form (spoon, fork, or serving piece) and overall condition.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Use a quality silver polish specifically formulated for silver plate sparingly to avoid wearing through the thin plated layer. Store in anti-tarnish cloth or bags.
Similar Pieces
Silver-plated flatware pieces by contemporaries such as Gorham, International Silver Co., and Wallace Silversmiths from the same era.
Interesting Facts
Reed & Barton provided elegant flatware and hollowware to prominent American households and even supplied items used in the White House during various administrations.