Benedict-Proctor Silver Plate Footed Hollowware Bowl, Pattern 9978
Hollowware (Bowl/Dish) · Benedict-Proctor Mfg. Co., Ltd. (BP logo in a shield). Founded as a joint venture between the American Benedict Mfg. Co. and Canadian interests, located in Trenton, Ontario, Canada. Known for high-quality production of silver-plated giftware.
Pattern: Pattern number 9978; generic mid-century floral/scroll aesthetics, production estimated 1930s-1950s.
Type
Hollowware (Bowl/Dish)
Maker
Benedict-Proctor Mfg. Co., Ltd. (BP logo in a shield). Founded as a joint venture between the American Benedict Mfg. Co. and Canadian interests, located in Trenton, Ontario, Canada. Known for high-quality production of silver-plated giftware.
Material
EP Brass (Electroplated Brass). The base metal is yellow brass, coated with a thin layer of silver through electrolysis.
Dimensions
Estimated 8 to 10 inches in diameter; approximately 400-700 grams. Standard service bowl sizing.
Description
A classic example of mid-century Canadian silver-plate hollowware. This footed bowl by Benedict-Proctor showcases a sturdy brass construction with a vibrant, albeit heavily oxidized, silver finish. The piece rests on four decorative feet, reflecting the domestic elegance popular in Canadian households during the mid-20th century.
Key Features
Distinctive 'BP' shield hallmark; 'Lead Mts' stamp indicating the use of softer cast metal for atmospheric detailing; four-footed stance.
Material & Composition
EP Brass (Electroplated Brass). The base metal is yellow brass, coated with a thin layer of silver through electrolysis.
Finish & Decoration
High-polished silver surface with heavy multi-colored tarnish. Features decorative cast scroll feet and what appears to be a gadroon or floral rim (visible in periphery).
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped with a shield containing 'BP', 'MADE IN CANADA', 'E.P. BRASS', 'LEAD MTS' (meaning Lead Mounts for the decorative trim), and the pattern number '9978'.
Construction Details
Spun brass body with cast lead-alloy decorative mounts (feet and rim) soldered to the base. Electroplated after assembly.
Functional Features
Four-footed raised design to protect table surfaces from heat; flared rim for ease of handling.
Handle & Grip Details
No primary handles; supported by four ornate cast feet soldered directly to the underside.
Craftsmanship Details
Mass-produced factory item. The spinning of the brass is uniform, and stamps are well-centered, indicating good quality-control for a commercial plate manufacturer.
Authentication Indicators
Clear, deep factory stamps consistent with Benedict-Proctor's known marking system; 'EP Brass' designation confirms it is not sterling silver.
Origin & Manufacturing
Trenton, Ontario, Canada. Manufactured at the Benedict-Proctor factory, which was a major regional employer and producer of household silver and hotel ware.
Era & Period
Late Art Deco to Mid-Century Transition (c. 1935-1955). Canadian industrial silver-plating boom period.
Age Estimate
Circa 1940-1950. The 'E.P. Brass' and 'Lead Mts' markings are characteristic of mid-20th-century Canadian production standards.
Cultural Significance
Represents the accessibility of 'luxury' silver aesthetics for the middle class in post-depression Canada, moving away from expensive sterling to durable electroplated brass.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Heavy 'rainbow' tarnish indicates long-term exposure. Surface scratches and minor pitting visible on the underside. Solder joints at the feet appear stable but require cleaning to assess for 'plate loss'.
Value Estimate
$15.00 - $35.00 USD. Value is decorative/utilitarian rather than intrinsic, as it contains no scrap silver value.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water first, then use a non-abrasive cream like Wright's Silver Cream. Avoid 'silver dips' which can damage the lead mounts and brass base if the plating is thin.
Similar Pieces
Birks Regency Plate (often higher quality), Marlboro Plate (Morton-Parker), and international pieces by Oneida or Gorham plate.
Interesting Facts
Benedict-Proctor was a significant Canadian manufacturer; their items were often given as wedding gifts or 'Sunday Best' dinnerware in the mid-1900s. The 'Lead Mts' mark is an honest disclosure typical of the era, distinguishing the cast parts from the spun brass body.