Frank M. Whiting Sterling Silver Pierced Nut Dish, Pattern 9613
Hollowware (Nut Dish/Bonbon Dish) · Frank M. Whiting & Co., North Attleboro, MA. Founded in 1866, the company became one of the most prestigious American silversmiths, eventually merging with Ellmore Silver Co. in the mid-20th century.
Pattern: Geometric Pierced Border with Beaded Rim, Reference Number 9613. This is a classic utilitarian pattern produced primarily in the early 20th century.
Type
Hollowware (Nut Dish/Bonbon Dish)
Maker
Frank M. Whiting & Co., North Attleboro, MA. Founded in 1866, the company became one of the most prestigious American silversmiths, eventually merging with Ellmore Silver Co. in the mid-20th century.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). The piece is solid sterling silver throughout with no base metals or weighted elements.
Dimensions
Diameter is approximately 3.25 to 4 inches; height is approximately 0.75 inches. Weight is estimated at 35-50 grams based on standard production for this pattern size.
Description
An elegant example of American sterling hollowware, this individual nut dish by Frank M. Whiting exemplifies tabletop refinement of the early 1900s. The piece features a shallow central well and a broad, elegantly pierced flange that catches the light through its intricate openwork. The beaded rim provides a tactile finish, while the central monogram reflects its history as a personalized heirloom. Its low profile and mirrored surfaces are characteristic of the 'Golden Age' of American sterling production.
Key Features
Signature Whiting 'Griffon-W' shield mark; pattern number 9613; repeating openwork geometric border; applied beaded rim; script monogramming.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). The piece is solid sterling silver throughout with no base metals or weighted elements.
Finish & Decoration
Mirrored polish finish with a decorative pierced (openwork) flange featuring an repeating hourglass/scrolling motif. The edge is finished with a fine applied beaded rim. The center features a three-letter script monogram "MSL" or similar.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The underside is stamped with the Frank M. Whiting hallmark: a 'W' within a shield surmounted by a stylized griffon/eagle crest. It is accompanied by the word 'STERLING', the pattern number '9613', and a small 'T' in a square (likely a factory or date indicator).
Construction Details
Machine-stamped and die-cut from sterling sheet. The piercing is performed with a precision die, and the beaded rim is applied. The center shows evidence of being spun or stamped for depth.
Functional Features
Features a flared, pierced rim designed to ventilate small treats and provide an easy grip for passing. It serves as an individual nut, candy, or mint dish.
Handle & Grip Details
No dedicated handles; the wide, flared pierced rim serves as the primary grip surface for lifting and steadying the dish.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality machine-assisted craftsmanship. The die-cutting is clean with no burrs on the piercing reverse, and the beaded rim is perfectly centered and integrated.
Authentication Indicators
Hallmark is correctly struck and sharp; 'STERLING' font and spacing are consistent with known FM Whiting dies; wear patterns on the base rim are congruent with decades of flat-surface contact.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America; North Attleboro, Massachusetts. Produced in the Whiting factory which was known for high-quality production-run sterling.
Era & Period
Early 20th Century / Deco-Transitional (c. 1910-1940). The clean geometric piercing reflects the shift from Victorian ornamentation toward Art Deco simplicity.
Age Estimate
Circa 1920-1945 based on the specific style of the F.M. Whiting hallmark and the geometric 'hourglass' piercing pattern.
Cultural Significance
Represents the formal American dining traditions of the early 20th century where individual portions of nuts or 'bonbons' were served at each place setting or passed during bridge games and tea service.
Condition Notes
Very Good condition. Light surface scratches (micro-marring) consistent with age and polishing. No visible dents, splits to the piercing, or repairs. Monogram is crisp and hasn't been buffed down.
Value Estimate
$45.00 - $85.00 USD. Value is driven by sterling weight and the reputable maker, though commonality of the size keeps it accessible for collectors.
Care & Maintenance
Polish with a high-quality cream like Wright's Silver Cream. Use a soft-bristled brush to remove dried polish from the piercing and beaded rim. Store in a tarnish-resistant cloth bag.
Similar Pieces
Similar designs were produced by Gorham and Wallace, but they usually featured floral piercings rather than Whiting's geometric 'hourglass' style seen here.
Interesting Facts
Frank M. Whiting was the son of William D. Whiting, who founded the Whiting Manufacturing Company (later bought by Gorham). Frank's own company, Frank M. Whiting & Co., became a fierce competitor and produced many of the most famous Art Nouveau patterns like 'Princess Ingrid'.