Apollo E.P.N.S. 'Lorraine' Pattern Silver Plate Compote or Tazza
Hollowware (Compote / Low Tazza) · Bernard Rice’s Sons, Inc. (Brooklyn, NY). Established as a continuation of Rice & Hochster, they were a prominent American manufacturer of silver-plated ware and pewter, known for their 'Apollo' brand and collaborations with contemporary designers.
Pattern: Lorraine Pattern (No. 14332). Introduced in the early 20th century, likely between 1910 and 1925; currently discontinued and of interest to secondary market vintage collectors.
Type
Hollowware (Compote / Low Tazza)
Maker
Bernard Rice’s Sons, Inc. (Brooklyn, NY). Established as a continuation of Rice & Hochster, they were a prominent American manufacturer of silver-plated ware and pewter, known for their 'Apollo' brand and collaborations with contemporary designers.
Material
Electroplated Nickel Silver (E.P.N.S.). The base metal is a non-ferrous alloy of nickel, copper, and zinc, which is then electrolytically coated with a thin layer of fine silver.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter of 6 to 8 inches (15-20 cm). Weight is typical for nickel-based hollowware, likely between 300 to 500 grams. It is a medium-sized serving piece/compote.
Description
This Apollo E.P.N.S. compote is a refined example of American silver-plate production from the early 20th century. Featuring the 'Lorraine' pattern, it embodies the sophisticated restraint of the Neoclassical Revival, using repeating leaf motifs and geometric fluting to create a sense of order and elegance. Though not solid sterling, Bernard Rice’s Sons pieces were celebrated for their durability and heavy silver deposit, making them staples for formal entertaining in the pre-WWII era.
Key Features
The distinctive 'Lorraine' script mark and the 'Apollo' branding are primary identifiers. The crispness of the machine-rolled laurel border indicates the high production quality of Bernard Rice’s Sons compared to cheaper contemporary alternatives.
Material & Composition
Electroplated Nickel Silver (E.P.N.S.). The base metal is a non-ferrous alloy of nickel, copper, and zinc, which is then electrolytically coated with a thin layer of fine silver.
Finish & Decoration
The piece features Neoclassical and Beaux-Arts influences. The rim is decorated with a chased or die-rolled laurel leaf and berry border, followed by a wide band of vertical engine-turned fluting (gadrooning). The center is polished to a mirror finish, now significantly tarnished.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The underside displays a rectangular stamped box containing 'APOLLO / E.P.N.S.', followed by 'MADE IN U.S.A. BY / BERNARD RICE'S SONS INC.', the production number '14332', and the pattern name 'Lorraine' in a script font.
Construction Details
Machine-manufactured through metal spinning and die-striking. The decorative borders were applied using a rolling die or hydraulic press. The central dome suggests a weighted or pedestal-mounted construction (though only the underside is visible).
Functional Features
Flat, wide basin designed for serving fruit, pastries, or small cakes. The raised central portion of the base suggests a pedestal or ‘tazza’ form for elevated presentation on a dining table.
Handle & Grip Details
No handles present; this is a pedestal-style hollowware piece meant to be gripped by the stem or base.
Craftsmanship Details
While machine-made, the piece shows excellent symmetry and industrial precision. The die-stamping of the marks is clean and deep, reflecting a high standard of quality control at the Brooklyn factory.
Authentication Indicators
The marks are authentic and consistent with known Bernard Rice’s Sons stamps. The '14332' internal reference number is a standard factory catalog code. The wear patterns are consistent with authentic E.P.N.S. aging rather than modern reproductions.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States; specifically New York City/Brooklyn. Produced in the Bernard Rice’s Sons workshop, which was renowned for producing high-quality silver-plated goods for middle and upper-class American households.
Era & Period
Late Edwardian or Early Art Deco period (circa 1915-1925). The laurel leaf motif is a hallmark of the Neoclassical Revival style popular in the U.S. during this time.
Age Estimate
Circa 1915-1925. The specific typography of the 'Lorraine' script and the 'Apollo' trademark logo used by Rice’s Sons are characteristic of this decade.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'democratization of luxury' in America, where high-quality silver-plated items allowed growing middle-class families to emulate the prestigious 'Old World' dining habits of the upper class.
Condition Notes
Fair. Significant surface oxidation and tarnish are visible throughout the basin. Note circular 'water spots' or 'milky' spots which suggest the piece has been exposed to moisture or acidic food without immediate cleaning. No major dents are visible from the underside view, but the plating may be thinning in high-wear areas.
Value Estimate
$25.00 - $60.00 USD. Value is limited by the fact that it is silver plate rather than sterling, and the presence of significant tarnish. If professionally polished and the plating is intact, it sits at the higher end for vintage enthusiasts.
Care & Maintenance
Gentle cleaning with a non-abrasive silver cream (like Wright's) is recommended. Avoid 'silver dips' which can strip the thin silver layer and expose the yellow nickel-silver base below. Dry thoroughly to prevent further spotting.
Similar Pieces
Similar patterns include Gorham's silver-plate lines or Reed & Barton’s 'Winthrop' and 'King Francis' plated collections. Collectors might confuse this with sterling if not for the 'E.P.N.S.' mark.
Interesting Facts
Bernard Rice's Sons was notable for manufacturing the 'Apollo Skyscraper' tea set designed by Erik Magnussen in the late 1920s, showing their transition from formal patterns like 'Lorraine' into radical Art Deco modernism.