Carlingford Souvenir Enameled Demitasse Spoon in Silver Plate
Flatware (Souvenir Spoon) · Unknown manufacturer, likely a specialized British or Canadian souvenir spoon maker supplying the tourist trade during the mid-20th century.
Pattern: Carlingford Heraldic Souvenir Pattern, non-production vintage tourist line.
Type
Flatware (Souvenir Spoon)
Maker
Unknown manufacturer, likely a specialized British or Canadian souvenir spoon maker supplying the tourist trade during the mid-20th century.
Material
Silver-plated base metal (likely nickel silver or EPNS) with vitreous enamel decoration on the finial.
Dimensions
Approx. 4 inches (10 cm) in length, standard demitasse or teaspoon souvenir size, weighing approximately 12-18 grams.
Description
An intriguing vintage souvenir demitasse spoon featuring a striking enameled crest at the terminal inscribed with 'CARLINGFORD B.C.'. The handle exhibits a dark oxidized patina with beaded and textured embellishments leading down to a classic oval bowl, which shows heavy natural tarnish and dark sulfide encrustations appropriate for uncleaned vintage silver plate.
Key Features
Vibrant polychrome enamel heraldic shield finial, textured stem with bead accents, and a heavy natural dark patina.
Material & Composition
Silver-plated base metal (likely nickel silver or EPNS) with vitreous enamel decoration on the finial.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized and aged dark patina finish with multi-colored champlevé enamel on the crest bearing the text 'CARLINGFORD B.C.' and beaded detailing along the stem.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not clearly visible in the provided image, but typically typical souvenir spoons of this type feature basic EPNS or maker initials stamped on the reverse of the bowl or stem.
Construction Details
Machine-stamped bowl and handle with a separately affixed enameled shield finial, standard for mid-century mass-produced souvenir flatware.
Functional Features
Decorative display piece or light-use demitasse spoon intended for collectors of travel memorabilia.
Handle & Grip Details
Slender tapering handle featuring raised beaded channels and an ornate enameled heraldic shield finial at the terminal.
Craftsmanship Details
Commercial grade souvenir craftsmanship combining machine stamping with hand-applied enamel work on the terminal shield.
Authentication Indicators
Consistent construction and aging patterns typical of mid-century tourist souvenir spoons. The heavy sulfide tarnish is indicative of genuine age on silver-plated base metals.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely manufactured in Great Britain or Canada for the local tourism and souvenir market associated with Carlingford.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (likely 1940s-1960s souvenir boom era).
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1965 based on the style of the enamel work and manufacturing technique.
Cultural Significance
Represents the mid-century tradition of travel collecting and local tourism memorabilia, serving as small portable monuments to specific geographic locations.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good condition. The piece displays heavy, dark tarnish and oxidation across the bowl and handle. The enamel appears intact with good color retention, though the silver-plated base shows expected age wear and surface discoloration.
Value Estimate
Low market value, typically ranging from $10 to $25 USD depending on collector demand for the specific location 'Carlingford B.C.'.
Care & Maintenance
Clean gently with a mild liquid dish soap and a soft brush to preserve the delicate enamel work. Avoid harsh silver dips which can strip the dark antique finish or damage the enamel binder.
Similar Pieces
Various British, Canadian, and American town-name souvenir spoons with enameled crests produced by makers like W.H. Collins or various Birmingham novelty manufacturers.
Interesting Facts
Souvenir spoons became massively popular collecting items starting in the late 19th century and experienced a resurgence in the mid-20th century, capturing local history, towns, and landmarks for travelers.