Victorian Sterling Silver Repoussé Heart-Shaped Bonbon Dish with Integral Handle
Hollowware - Small Bowl / Bonbon Dish / Sweetmeat Dish · Unknown Victorian Silversmith, likely British or American manufacturer from the late 19th century
Pattern: Unidentified Victorian floral and scroll repoussé pattern
Type
Hollowware - Small Bowl / Bonbon Dish / Sweetmeat Dish
Maker
Unknown Victorian Silversmith, likely British or American manufacturer from the late 19th century
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 fineness), highly polished interior bowl with chased and repoussé exterior rim and handle
Dimensions
Estimated small serving size, approximately 4 to 6 inches in length including handle, weighing roughly 40 to 80 grams
Description
An exquisite Victorian sterling silver sweetmeat or bonbon dish fashioned in a charming heart shape. The piece features a highly reflective, mirror-polished interior that contrasts beautifully with the densely decorated, repoussé and chased rim and integral handle. Swirling foliage, C-scrolls, and delicate floral blossoms completely encircle the perimeter, showcasing the intricate craftsmanship typical of late 19th-century silver smithing. It serves both as a functional small server and a decorative objet d'art.
Key Features
Distinctive romantic heart form, integrated decorated handle, heavy repoussé floral and scroll border, and polished high-luster bowl
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 fineness), highly polished interior bowl with chased and repoussé exterior rim and handle
Finish & Decoration
Mirror polish interior bowl with heavily chased and repoussé floral, foliage, and scrollwork motifs along the rim and integrated short handle; characteristic of the late Victorian decorative arts style
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not clearly visible in the provided image, but typical pieces from this era would feature maker marks, a sterling or .925 purity mark, and potentially assay office or date letter marks depending on British or American origin
Construction Details
Likely stamped or raised from a sheet of silver with detailed repoussé work pushed out from the reverse side and refined by hand-chasing on the front
Functional Features
Designed as a small decorative dish for serving bonbons, mints, nuts, or small confections; features an integral flat handle for passing or placement on a vanity or tea table
Handle & Grip Details
Integral short flat handle emerging from the top of the heart shape, entirely decorated in matching repoussé floral and scroll motifs
Craftsmanship Details
Combines mechanical stamping for the base form with skilled hand-chasing and repoussé work to create depth and texture in the floral and scroll elements
Authentication Indicators
Symmetry and depth of the repoussé work, natural tarnish patterns in recessed areas, and appropriate weight distribution suggest genuine late 19th-century sterling manufacture rather than a modern reproduction
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely British (Birmingham or Sheffield) or American, reflecting the massive popularity of ornate repoussé tableware during the Victorian period
Era & Period
Victorian Era (1837-1901), specifically late 19th century
Age Estimate
Circa 1880-1900
Cultural Significance
Reflects the Victorian obsession with romantic symbolism, elaborate ornamentation, and the proliferation of specialized tableware for formal entertaining and domestic comfort
Condition Notes
Appears to be in very good antique condition with light surface wear consistent with age and gentle polishing. No major dents, splits, or obvious repairs visible from the photograph
Value Estimate
Estimated market value ranges between $75 to $200 USD depending on exact maker's marks, weight, and overall condition
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a quality commercial silver cream (such as Wright's or Hagerty) and a soft cloth, avoiding harsh abrasive dips that can strip the dark antiquing in the recessed repoussé details. Store in an anti-tarnish bag or cloth wrap
Similar Pieces
Similar repoussé sweetmeat dishes and pin trays produced by Victorian makers such as William Comyns, Gorham, or dominant Birmingham silversmiths of the period
Interesting Facts
Heart-shaped dishes were exceptionally popular during the late Victorian era as tokens of affection, often used during high tea or on dressing tables to hold trinkets or small sweets