Late Victorian/Early Edwardian Repoussé Sterling Silver Bowl likely by an American Silversmith
Hollowware (Small Fruit or Nut Bowl) · Unknown American Silversmith (likely Gorham, Kirk & Son, or Whittier due to the floral repoussé style). Further cleaning of the hallmark near the center would be required for specific identification.
Pattern: Generic Floral Repoussé / Baltimore Style; popular between 1880 and 1915.
Type
Hollowware (Small Fruit or Nut Bowl)
Maker
Unknown American Silversmith (likely Gorham, Kirk & Son, or Whittier due to the floral repoussé style). Further cleaning of the hallmark near the center would be required for specific identification.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Solid construction, typical of American sterling hollowware from the turn of the century.
Dimensions
Estimated 5-6 inches in diameter, 2.5-3 inches in height. Estimated weight: 150-250 grams (4.8 - 8 troy oz).
Description
This is a charming example of American sterling silver hollowware. The bowl features a classic hemispherical form supported by a flat, integrated base. The standout feature is the vibrant repoussé border that encircles the rim, showcasing high-relief roses and scrolled greenery that catch the light from various angles. The interior is polished to a mirror shine, while the underside bears a personal touch via a beautifully executed period monogram.
Key Features
Deep-relief floral repoussé border; period-correct slanted monogram; high-quality weight-to-size ratio; absence of footed base suggests an earlier transitional design.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Solid construction, typical of American sterling hollowware from the turn of the century.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish on the body with a deep floral and foliate repoussé border featuring roses and scrolling leaves. The bottom features a hand-engraved 'HL' monogram in a slanted serif script.
Hallmarks & Stamps
A single visible hallmark is located near the center of the base; it appears to be a maker's mark within a cartouche (possibly a lion, anchor, or letter G). No visible 'Sterling' stamp in the current photo, though it is likely located on the outer rim of the base edge.
Construction Details
Spun or raised silver body with hand-chased and repoussé ornamentation applied or worked from the inside. The base is integrated (one-piece construction).
Functional Features
Rounded deep-welled interior for serving small food items; wide stable base to prevent tipping.
Handle & Grip Details
None; handle-less bowl design intended to be held by the body or moved by the rim.
Craftsmanship Details
Excellent chasing quality; the flowers have distinct petaling rather than appearing 'mushy,' which indicates hand-finishing after the initial strike or casting of the ornament.
Authentication Indicators
The depth of the engraving 'HL' shows it was cut with a graver rather than etched. The wear patterns on the base rim are consistent with a century of being placed on wooden tables. The hallmark placement is typical for American makers of the period.
Origin & Manufacturing
USA (likely Providence, RI or Baltimore, MD), manufactured in a professional silversmithing workshop using a combination of machine-assisted forming and hand-finished decoration.
Era & Period
Late Victorian to Edwardian (c. 1890-1910). This period favored heavy floral ornamentation, often referred to as the 'Maryland' or 'Baltimore' style when applied to hollowware.
Age Estimate
Circa 1900. The engraving style and the density of the floral border are hallmark indicators of the turn-of-the-century aesthetic.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Gilded Age' dining culture where specialized silver pieces were required for every course, reflecting the status and refinement of the Victorian middle and upper classes.
Condition Notes
Very Good. The surface shows light 'use marks' (micro-scratches) consistent with age. There is minimal tarnish in the crevices of the flowers. No major dents or thinning of the silver are visible on the base.
Value Estimate
$250 - $450 USD depending on the specific maker's mark and the total weight in troy ounces.
Care & Maintenance
Hand-wash with mild soap; polish with a high-quality cream like Wright's Silver Cream using a soft horsehair brush to reach into the floral crevices. Avoid machine washing.
Similar Pieces
Kirk Repoussé bowls (often more heavily decorated across the entire body) or Gorham 'Strasbourg' style hollowware.
Interesting Facts
Repoussé work reached its peak popularity in the late 19th century in the United States, largely popularized by S. Kirk & Son in Baltimore. Such bowls were often given as wedding or anniversary gifts.