International Silver Sterling Silver Rose Pattern Teaspoon
Flatware - Teaspoon / Demitasse Spoon · International Silver Company, Meriden, Connecticut. Formed in 1898 from a merger of several New England silversmiths, it became the world's largest manufacturer of silver flatware.
Pattern: Silver Rose pattern, introduced circa 1954. This pattern is well-known for its Romantic/Mid-Century Floral aesthetic.
Type
Flatware - Teaspoon / Demitasse Spoon
Maker
International Silver Company, Meriden, Connecticut. Formed in 1898 from a merger of several New England silversmiths, it became the world's largest manufacturer of silver flatware.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Solid construction without base metal, though some versions in this pattern were also produced in silver plate (look for 'IS' or 'Sterling' marks on reverse).
Dimensions
Estimated length is 6 inches (Standard Teaspoon) or 4.25 inches (Demitasse). Approximate weight: 20-30 grams (0.6 - 1.0 troy oz) depending on exact size.
Description
An elegant example of Mid-Century American silvercraft, this teaspoon features a bold, sculptural rose at the finial. The organic, vine-like handle flows seamlessly into a bright, polished egg-shaped bowl, blending naturalism with high-end dining sophistication.
Key Features
Distinguished by the 'branch' texture on the shank (neck) and the fully bloomed three-dimensional rose at the top of the handle.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Solid construction without base metal, though some versions in this pattern were also produced in silver plate (look for 'IS' or 'Sterling' marks on reverse).
Finish & Decoration
High-relief casting with oxidized (darkened) recesses to emphasize the floral details. Features a large blooming rose finial, foliate textured stem resembling a vine or branch, and a smooth, mirror-polished bowl.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Expected marks on the reverse of the handle: 'International Sterling' or the 'IS' logo alongside the 'Sterling' stamp. Note: marks are not visible in the provided image but are essential for value.
Construction Details
Die-struck and machine-finished. The high-relief floral top is stamped with immense pressure to achieve the 3D effect, then polished to highlight the raised surfaces.
Functional Features
Tapered bowl for balanced scooping, textured handle for superior grip, and a reinforced neck to prevent bending under pressure.
Handle & Grip Details
Solid sterling silver handle integrated into the bowl construction. The handle features deeply carved leaves and a twisted vine motif providing a tactile, ergonomic grip.
Craftsmanship Details
Excellent factory production quality. The depth of the relief is superior to many competitor floral patterns of the same era, showing the strength of International Silver's die-cutting technology.
Authentication Indicators
The crispness of the leaf veins and the specific shape of the rose petals match International Silver's design archives. The wear patterns on the back of the bowl indicate genuine usage.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America, specifically Connecticut, the historic heart of the American silver industry.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (Post-WWII / 1950s). Reflects the shift toward romanticized nature themes popular in American household design during the 1950s.
Age Estimate
Circa 1954-1970. The design indicates the early-to-mid production run of the Silver Rose collection.
Cultural Significance
Represents the prosperity of middle-class America in the 1950s, where sterling silver service was a standard symbol of a proper household and 'Sunday best' dining.
Condition Notes
Very Good. Visible surface scratches (swirl marks) in the bowl consistent with normal use. Light tarnish in the deep recesses of the rose, which actually enhances the visual depth and detail.
Value Estimate
$30 - $55 USD. Value is largely dependent on current silver spot prices and the presence of the 'Sterling' mark on the reverse.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild silver cream like Wright's. Use a soft horsehair brush to reach tarnish in the rose petals. Store in a flannel-lined chest or tarnish-resistant wrap.
Similar Pieces
Wallace 'Rose Point' (more pierced/lacy), Reed & Barton 'Burgundy' (more rococo), and Gorham 'Strasbourg'.
Interesting Facts
The 'Silver Rose' pattern was marketed as 'the pattern that brings the garden to your table.' It was a popular wedding registry item for 1950s brides.