Marlboro Plate Silver-Plated Melone-Form Hollowware by Morton-Parker
Hollowware (Tea/Coffee Service accessory, likely a Teapot or Sugar Bowl) · Morton-Parker Ltd., a notable Canadian silversmithing firm founded in Trenton, Ontario, in 1945. They are well-regarded for their 'Marlboro Plate' line of fine electroplated hollowware.
Pattern: Marlboro Plate (Collection); Pattern appears to be a traditional Georgian/Victorian Revival lobed or melon style.
Type
Hollowware (Tea/Coffee Service accessory, likely a Teapot or Sugar Bowl)
Maker
Morton-Parker Ltd., a notable Canadian silversmithing firm founded in Trenton, Ontario, in 1945. They are well-regarded for their 'Marlboro Plate' line of fine electroplated hollowware.
Material
EPNS (Electroplated Nickel Silver). Features a base of nickel silver (an alloy of copper, nickel, and zinc) coated with a layer of fine silver through electroplating.
Dimensions
Estimated height: 4-6 inches; Diameter: 5-7 inches. Weight is reflective of a heavy gauge base metal rather than precious metal mass.
Description
A classic piece of Canadian silver-plated hollowware, this Marlboro Plate item by Morton-Parker showcases the mid-century's penchant for historical revivalism. With its bulbous, lobed body and sturdy pedestal base, it mimics the weight and gravitas of solid sterling pieces from the 1840s. While currently heavily tarnished, the piece retains its structural integrity and presence as a staple of North American domestic silver.
Key Features
The 'Marlboro Plate' branding is the primary identifier; the lobed melon-form body is a signature historical revival design characteristic.
Material & Composition
EPNS (Electroplated Nickel Silver). Features a base of nickel silver (an alloy of copper, nickel, and zinc) coated with a layer of fine silver through electroplating.
Finish & Decoration
Polished silver finish currently showing heavy rainbow and dark sulfide tarnish. The body features lobed/gadrooned 'melon' sections consistent with mid-19th-century revival styles.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'MARLBORO PLATE / BY / MORTON-PARKER / CANADA'. There is a secondary faint stamp below which likely indicates 'E.P. COPPER' or 'E.P.N.S.' and a pattern number, though it is partially obscured.
Construction Details
Machine-pressed or spun body with applied cast feet and handles. The circular foot is a separate ring soldered to the main body.
Functional Features
Features a raised pedestal foot for stability and heat clearance. The interior would typically be satin-finished or tinned.
Handle & Grip Details
Visible cast scroll-style feet; any handles (not fully visible) would likely be hollow-cast silver plate attached via solder joints.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial high-quality plating; the stamping is crisp and centered, and the solder seams between the foot and body are well-blended, typical of Morton-Parker's commercial standards.
Authentication Indicators
The clear 'Morton-Parker Canada' stamp is the definitive mark of authenticity. The weight and tarnish color are consistent with high-quality electroplated nickel silver.
Origin & Manufacturing
Trenton, Ontario, Canada. Morton-Parker was one of Canada's most prominent manufacturers of silver-plated giftware and hotelware.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (Post-WWII); designed in the Victorian Revival style which was popular for formal dining in the 1950s and 60s.
Age Estimate
Circa 1945-1970. The marking style is consistent with Morton-Parker's peak production years in Ontario.
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-war boom in Canadian manufacturing and the democraticization of luxury dining wares for the growing middle class.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Displays heavy tarnish (sulfide build-up) which requires professional cleaning. No visible 'bleeding' (base metal showing through silver), but the foot shows light surface scratches.
Value Estimate
$20 - $45 USD for an individual piece; full tea sets in this pattern typically range from $150 - $300 depending on the number of pieces.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild silver cream (e.g., Wright's) using a soft sponge. Avoid 'dip' cleaners which can damage the solder joints. Store in Pacific Silvercloth to prevent the heavy tarnish seen in the photo.
Similar Pieces
Benedict Proctor (Canada), Birks Regency Plate, or International Silver Co. 'Victorian' patterns. The main difference is the specific maker's mark and the gauge of the nickel silver base.
Interesting Facts
Marlboro Plate was often the preferred choice for Canadian bridal registries in the mid-20th century because of its durability and 'Sterling-look' at a fraction of the price.