Fisher Silver Plate Scalloped Fluted Footed Bowl
Hollowware - Decorative Serving Bowl · Fisher Silversmiths, Inc. (founded by Samual Fisher in 1936 in Jersey City, New Jersey; later acquired by Hermann C. Kupper and eventually merged into the Garden Silversmiths group). Known for high-quality silverplate and sterling hollowware that emulated classic Georgian and Victorian designs.
Pattern: Chippendale or Victorian Rose Influence (unnamed fluted pattern typical of mid-20th century American silverplate).
Type
Hollowware - Decorative Serving Bowl
Maker
Fisher Silversmiths, Inc. (founded by Samual Fisher in 1936 in Jersey City, New Jersey; later acquired by Hermann C. Kupper and eventually merged into the Garden Silversmiths group). Known for high-quality silverplate and sterling hollowware that emulated classic Georgian and Victorian designs.
Material
Silver Plate (Electroplated Nickel Silver - EPNS). This piece consists of a thin layer of pure silver electrically bonded to a base metal of nickel silver (a mix of copper, nickel, and zinc). No precious metal bullion value.
Dimensions
Approximately 10-12 inches in diameter and 4-5 inches in height. Weight is roughly 600-900 grams; it will feel significantly heavier than a sterling piece of the same size due to the dense base metal.
Description
This elegant silverplate bowl by Fisher Silversmiths showcases the graceful symmetry of mid-century American dining. Its deep fluted lobes create a theatrical play of light and shadow, radiating from the center to a delicate scalloped edge. Standing on four intricately cast feet, the bowl possesses an architectural presence that elevates it from a mere kitchen utensil to a formal centerpiece suitable for a sideboard or dining table.
Key Features
Lobed 'Melon' body fluting, ornate cast feet, and a high-luster nickel-silver base which resists denting better than soft sterling silver.
Material & Composition
Silver Plate (Electroplated Nickel Silver - EPNS). This piece consists of a thin layer of pure silver electrically bonded to a base metal of nickel silver (a mix of copper, nickel, and zinc). No precious metal bullion value.
Finish & Decoration
Mirror-polished finish with a lobed/fluted body and a scalloped rim. The decorative亮点 are the four cast ornate 'lion\'s paw' or 'floral scroll' feet attached to the base. The design is Neoclassical with Victorian revival elements.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Likely stamped on the base with 'FISHER' and 'SILVERPLATE' or a crown/shield logo. It may also include a catalog model number (e.g., 200 series). It will lack the 'Sterling' or '925' mark because it is plated.
Construction Details
Machine-spun or die-pressed fluted body with four independently cast feet that are silver-soldered to the base. The rim is likely reinforced with an applied wire or rolled edge for durability.
Functional Features
Wide, shallow basin suitable for fruit, bread, or centerpiece floral arrangements. The elevated feet prevent heat transfer to surfaces and provide stability.
Handle & Grip Details
This item is handle-less; however, the scalloped rim provides multiple grip points for lifting. No mixed materials like ivory or wood are present.
Craftsmanship Details
A high-quality example of industrial silver production. The soldering of the feet is clean, and the fluting is perfectly symmetrical, indicating high-standard die-work and quality control characteristic of Fisher Silversmiths.
Authentication Indicators
Presence of the Fisher hallmark; the 'warm' yellowish-grey tone visible in areas of wear (bleeding) is characteristic of nickel-silver base metal rather than the white-grey of solid sterling.
Origin & Manufacturing
Jersey City/Newark, New Jersey, USA. Manufactured in a factory setting utilizing industrial electroplating and casting processes.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Traditional (c. 1940-1960). While the design is a revival of 18th-century styles, the manufacturing method and finish are typical of the American silverplate boom following WWII.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950. Based on the popularity of footed fluted bowls in bridal registries and the specific casting quality of Fisher during their peak production years.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Gilded Age' aesthetic brought to the middle class. Such bowls were essential components of formal dinner party etiquette and were frequently given as wedding gifts to symbolize the establishment of a new household.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good. There are visible surface scratches consistent with use and polishing. Small dark spots suggest 'pitting' or breakthrough where the silver layer has worn thin. No major dents or structural repairs are visible.
Value Estimate
$30 - $75 USD. Value is driven by decorative appeal rather than metal content. Pieces with heavy 'bleeding' (base metal showing) fall toward the lower end, while those with pristine plating reach the higher end.
Care & Maintenance
Use a gentle cream like Wright\'s Silver Cream. Avoid 'silver dips' which can strip the thin plating. Store in a Pacific Silvercloth bag to prevent tarnish. Wash only by hand with mild soap; never place in a dishwasher.
Similar Pieces
Gorham 'Chantilly' silverplate bowls (higher price point), Reed & Barton 'Winthrop' range (more ornate), or generic EPNS imports (lighter weight and poorer casting).
Interesting Facts
Fisher was one of the most successful American hollowware companies of the mid-20th century, often producing pieces that looked significantly more expensive than their retail price, making them staples of American suburban 'company dinner' culture.
Notes
Fisher silverplate