Victorian EPNS Fiddle Pattern Serving Spoon by Daniel & Arter
Flatware (Serving Spoon) · Daniel & Arter (Birmingham), founded in late 19th Century by Thomas Henry Daniel and Thomas Richard Arter. Known for high-quality silver plate and 'Nevada Silver' alloy.
Pattern: Fiddle Pattern, featuring a spatulate handle with two shoulders near the bowl/stem junction. A staple of 19th-century British dining.
Type
Flatware (Serving Spoon)
Maker
Daniel & Arter (Birmingham), founded in late 19th Century by Thomas Henry Daniel and Thomas Richard Arter. Known for high-quality silver plate and 'Nevada Silver' alloy.
Material
Electroplated Nickel Silver (EPNS). The base is a nickel-copper-zinc alloy electroplated with a thin layer of pure silver.
Dimensions
Estimated length 8-9 inches (serving size); weight approximately 60-80 grams. The handle is wider than a standard teaspoon, consistent with large serving implements.
Description
An elegant example of Victorian industrial silversmithing, this Fiddle pattern serving spoon represents the shift toward durable, attainable luxury. Produced by the renowned Daniel & Arter, it features the classic 'shoulders' of the Fiddle style and a robust construction meant for daily use rather than just display.
Key Features
Distinguishing 'D&A' maker's mark and 'NS' (Nickel Silver) stamp; classic Fiddle pattern lines; presence of pseudo-hallmarks typical of Sheffield and Birmingham platers.
Material & Composition
Electroplated Nickel Silver (EPNS). The base is a nickel-copper-zinc alloy electroplated with a thin layer of pure silver.
Finish & Decoration
Satin-to-oxidized surface with a classic Fiddle handle shape. The handle ends in a rounded terminal with subtle shoulders. It features a plain, unengraved finish typical of utilitarian Victorian household service.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'D&A' for Daniel & Arter; 'EP' for electroplate; and 'NS' for Nickel Silver base metal. Includes pseudo-hallmarks (Gothic-style letters) designed to mimic official sterling silver assay marks, a common marketing practice in the Victorian era.
Construction Details
Die-struck from a sheet of nickel silver, then electroplated. Machine-manufactured with hand-finishing for the edges and stamp application.
Functional Features
Large oval-shaped bowl (assumed) for serving vegetables or side dishes; thickened handle for grip strength during heavy service.
Handle & Grip Details
Solid nickel silver core with electroplated finish. Fiddle-shaped terminal providing a flared, comfortable grip.
Craftsmanship Details
Sturdy industrial build with clear, deeply struck marks. The symmetry is consistent with machine die-striking, though the hand-polishing and plating quality were high for its era.
Authentication Indicators
The 'EP' and 'NS' marks explicitly confirm this is not sterling silver. The D&A mark is consistent with known Victorian factory stamps.
Origin & Manufacturing
Birmingham, England; manufactured at the Globe Nevada Silver Works, which was one of the largest factories in the region at the time.
Era & Period
Late Victorian (c. 1880-1901), characterized by the mass production of durable silver-plated tableware for the growing middle class.
Age Estimate
Circa 1885-1900 based on the 'D&A' mark style and the height of the EPNS industry in Birmingham.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of formal dining during the Industrial Revolution, allowing the Victorian middle class to emulate the silver services of the aristocracy.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Significant 'bleeding' (wear-through) of the silver plating reveals the yellowish nickel silver base beneath. Heavy surface tarnish and micro-scratching from long-term use and storage.
Value Estimate
$10 - $25 USD. Silver-plated individual pieces have low market value compared to sterling, primarily attracting buyers for functional use or as replacements for existing sets.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with mild soap and water. Use a non-abrasive silver cream (like Wright's) sparingly, as the silver layer is already worn. Avoid abrasive pads which will remove the remaining silver.
Similar Pieces
Sterling Silver Fiddle spoons by Chawner & Co (which would have real hallmarks); Dixon & Sons EPNS flatware; Gorham plated 'Old English' patterns.
Interesting Facts
Daniel & Arter marketed a proprietary alloy called 'Nevada Silver' which contained no actual silver but was designed to mimic its appearance and durability.