D.P. Greece Silver Plated Repoussé Footed Oval Bowl
Hollowware (Fruit Bowl/Bread Basket/Decorative Bowl) · D.P. (Demetrios Papadopoulos), a Greek manufacturer known for mass-producing silver-plated and white metal housewares for the tourist and export market.
Pattern: Traditional Floral Repoussé; non-cataloged pattern featuring scrolled edges and embossed flower motifs typical of mid-20th century Mediterranean exports.
Type
Hollowware (Fruit Bowl/Bread Basket/Decorative Bowl)
Maker
D.P. (Demetrios Papadopoulos), a Greek manufacturer known for mass-producing silver-plated and white metal housewares for the tourist and export market.
Material
Silver Plate over base metal (likely brass or copper alloy). The 'Silver Plated' label indicates a thin electroplated layer of fine silver over a non-precious core.
Dimensions
Estimated 8-10 inches in length and 2-3 inches in height. Weight is relatively light compared to sterling, likely between 300-500 grams depending on base metal density.
Description
This is a classic example of Greek silver-plated export ware. The bowl features a vibrant, high-relief floral border that mimics traditional 18th-century repoussé work. Supported by four ornate foliate feet, the piece is designed to serve as a centerpiece for fruit or bread. Its bright finish and heavy ornamentation provide a sense of luxury at a more accessible price point than solid silver.
Key Features
Distinguishable by the blue 'D.P.' adhesive label, the four-footed stand, and the deep stamped floral motifs around the perimeter.
Material & Composition
Silver Plate over base metal (likely brass or copper alloy). The 'Silver Plated' label indicates a thin electroplated layer of fine silver over a non-precious core.
Finish & Decoration
Polished silver finish with heavy repoussé (stamped) floral and leaf borders. The style is 'Neo-Baroque' or 'Neo-Rococo' with a focus on high-relief textures and an undulating rim.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No formal silver assay hallmarks. The identifying mark is a blue oval adhesive sticker featuring a stylized 'D P' logo, with the text 'SILVER PLATED' and 'MADE IN GREECE' in white.
Construction Details
Machine-pressed or die-stamped body with cast decorative feet. The feet are soldered to the base. It is a mass-produced industrial item rather than a hand-wrought piece.
Functional Features
Four raised decorative feet for stability and elevation; deep basin for holding items; wide scalloped rim for grip.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A; the item is a bowl without dedicated handles, relying on the flared decorative rim for movement.
Craftsmanship Details
Moderate industrial quality. The stamping is clear but lacks the crisp detail of hand-chased silver. The soldering of the feet shows some visible seams typical of mass production.
Authentication Indicators
The presence of a 'Silver Plated' sticker is a definitive indicator that the item is not solid silver. The lack of stamped hallmarks (like .925 or a lion) confirms its status as plated ware.
Origin & Manufacturing
Greece; likely manufactured in an industrial workshop in Athens or Piraeus specializing in silver-plated giftware.
Era & Period
Modern Era (post-WWII/Export period). The use of an adhesive sticker and 'Made in Greece' in English indicates it was produced for the international market between 1960 and 1990.
Age Estimate
Circa 1970–1985. The font on the sticker and the condition of the adhesive suggest late 20th-century production.
Cultural Significance
Represents the mid-century trend of 'Affordable Elegance,' where middle-class households sought silver-look items for formal entertaining without the cost of sterling silver.
Condition Notes
Good to Fair condition. There is visible heavy tarnish and oxidation (dark spotting) on the underside. Scratches are present on the base, likely from cleaning or use. The silver plating appears intact but may be thin on high-contact areas.
Value Estimate
$15.00 – $40.00 USD. Value is primarily decorative; silver plate of this era and maker does not hold significant investment value for collectors.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid abrasive cleaners which will strip the thin silver layer. Use a gentle cream like Wright's Silver Cream and a soft cloth. Do not put in a dishwasher.
Similar Pieces
Comparable to silver-plated items by Godinger, I.F.S. (International), or Leonard. It is distinct from 'Greek 950' silver, which is much higher quality and hand-engraved.
Interesting Facts
D.P. was a prolific exporter to the United States and Europe during the heyday of Mediterranean giftware imports, often sold in department stores rather than high-end jewelry boutiques.