International Silver Co. 'Frontenac' Pattern Sterling Silver Cup or Beaker
Hollowware (Cup/Beaker) · International Silver Company (Meriden, Connecticut), specifically the Wilcox Silver Plate Co. division which produced high-end sterling lines. International Silver was a conglomerate formed in 1898 from several prestigious New England silversmiths, including Rogers and Wilcox.
Pattern: Frontenac Pattern, designed by Gilbert L. Crowell Jr., introduced in 1902. It is a floral Lily-based design, one of the most famous Art Nouveau patterns in American silver history.
Type
Hollowware (Cup/Beaker)
Maker
International Silver Company (Meriden, Connecticut), specifically the Wilcox Silver Plate Co. division which produced high-end sterling lines. International Silver was a conglomerate formed in 1898 from several prestigious New England silversmiths, including Rogers and Wilcox.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). The base metal is solid sterling silver, not plated, as indicated by the 'Sterling' mark and specific manufacturer symbols.
Dimensions
Estimated height: 3.5 to 4 inches; Diameter: 2.5 to 3 inches. Estimated weight: 120-150 grams (approx. 4-5 troy ounces), typical for a standard sterling beaker of this era.
Description
A fine example of American Art Nouveau hollowware, this sterling silver beaker features the celebrated Frontenac motif. The piece displays a sophisticated balance between plain polished surfaces and a rhythmic, wave-like border. The weight is substantial, conveying the quality associated with pre-war International Silver production.
Key Features
The distinctive 'W' mark of Wilcox Silver Plate Co. (used for sterling); the specific wavy-line border characteristic of the Frontenac secondary hollowware pieces; high-relief stamping of the silver standard.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). The base metal is solid sterling silver, not plated, as indicated by the 'Sterling' mark and specific manufacturer symbols.
Finish & Decoration
Art Nouveau style featuring a wavy repoussé or chased 'water' or scroll border near the rim. The body has a soft, aged patina with light surface oxidation. The primary decoration is the characteristic wavy line border that frames the pattern marks.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The image shows the 'W' inside a circle with four radiating lines (the mark for Wilcox Silver Plate Co., a division of International Silver), followed by a 'Sterling' stamp (partially visible/abbreviated), and the number '51' or a similar pattern reference digit inside a cartouche.
Construction Details
Spun and raised construction with a rolled rim. The decorative banding appears to be die-rolled or chased into the metal. The seam is invisible, consistent with high-quality American industrial silver production of the early 20th century.
Functional Features
Single-walled vessel intended for liquids. The slightly flared rim is designed for comfortable sipping, and the weighted bottom provides stability.
Handle & Grip Details
This is a handleless form (beaker/tumble style). The grip is provided by the tapered cylindrical body, which would have been easy to hold during a formal meal or for nursery use.
Craftsmanship Details
The piece shows excellent die-work; the transition between the smooth body and the wavy decorative band is seamless. The interior shows a bright finish, indicating high-quality polishing prior to sale.
Authentication Indicators
Clear and deep striking of the Wilcox 'W' mark; appropriate font for the period; natural wear patterns near the rim where fingers would most frequent; heavy gauge silver construction typical of Wilcox sterling lines.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States, Meriden, Connecticut. Manufactured at the Wilcox workshop under the International Silver Company umbrella, known for combining traditional craftsmanship with modern manufacturing efficiency.
Era & Period
Art Nouveau / Edwardian Period (c. 1890-1910). The 'Frontenac' pattern is a quintessential example of the American interpretation of the Art Nouveau movement, emphasizing organic, flowing lines.
Age Estimate
Circa 1902-1915. The mark and pattern style are consistent with the early production years following the pattern's release in 1902.
Cultural Significance
Such cups were often given as 'Christening' or 'Nursery' gifts in high-society American families, representing a legacy of wealth and a commitment to formal dining traditions that were peaking in the early 1900s.
Condition Notes
Very Good condition. There is visible surface tarnish (sulfide deposits) and minor 'fleabite' pitting/scratches consistent with age. No major dents or structural cracks are visible in the provided view. The rolled rim remains even and circular.
Value Estimate
$150.00 - $275.00 USD. Value is driven by the popularity of the Frontenac pattern and the weight of the silver. Items without monograms typically command a 20% premium.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild non-abrasive silver cream like Wright's. Avoid 'silver dips' which can strip the desirable oxidation from the decorative crevices. Store in a Pacific Silvercloth bag to prevent further tarnish.
Similar Pieces
Whiting 'Lily' Cup (similar floral theme), Tiffany & Co. 'Chrysanthemum' Cup (more ornate), or Gorham 'Chantilly' Beaker (more restrained/neoclassical).
Interesting Facts
The Frontenac pattern is often confused with the 'Lily' pattern by Whiting, but Frontenac is distinguished by its more aggressive floral curves. It was a flagship pattern for International Silver and remains highly sought after for replacement sets.