Mid-century Silver-Plated Bulbous Water Pitcher
Hollowware (Water Pitcher / Jug) · Unmarked or American Mass-Market Manufacturer (e.g., Gorham, Reed & Barton, or Sheridan)
Pattern: Undetermined Colonial Revival or Neo-Classical Pattern
Type
Hollowware (Water Pitcher / Jug)
Maker
Unmarked or American Mass-Market Manufacturer (e.g., Gorham, Reed & Barton, or Sheridan)
Material
Electroplated Nickel Silver (EPNS) or Silver Plate over Copper
Dimensions
Approximately 8-10 inches in height; estimated weight 800-1100 grams
Description
A classic mid-century silver-plated water pitcher featuring a distinctive bulbous, lobed body that tapers into a graceful neck. The piece sits upon a circular pedestal base and is finished with a large, polished scroll handle. The surface currently exhibits heavy iridescent tarnish, typical of items stored in open air for decades.
Key Features
Lobed 'melon' styling on the lower half of the vessel and a clean, unembellished flared rim
Material & Composition
Electroplated Nickel Silver (EPNS) or Silver Plate over Copper
Finish & Decoration
Highly tarnished mirror polish with a scalloped or 'melon' lobed body and flared rim
Hallmarks & Stamps
Likely stamped on the base with 'Silver Plate,' 'EPNS,' or a specific maker's logo; currently obscured in image
Construction Details
Machine-spun body with a cast hollow handle and a soldered pedestal base
Functional Features
Wide-mouth pouring spout, ergonomic C-scroll handle, and weighted pedestal base for stability
Handle & Grip Details
Cast hollow-metal handle with a classic thumb rest and rounded grip, soldered to the body
Craftsmanship Details
Functional industrial craftsmanship with clean solder joints and symmetrical machine-spun proportions.
Authentication Indicators
Lack of sterling hallmarks indicates silver plate; tarnish color suggests a nickel-silver base
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely United States or United Kingdom, mass-produced in a factory setting
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (1940-1960) featuring Colonial Revival design elements
Age Estimate
Circa 1950, based on form, construction, and level of tarnish
Cultural Significance
Reflects the post-war boom in home entertaining and the desire for formal table service in middle-class households.
Condition Notes
Poor to Fair (Condition Grade). The item shows heavy oxidation and possible 'bleeding' where the silver plate has worn thin to expose base metal.
Value Estimate
$20 - $50 USD depending on the integrity of the silver plating after polishing.
Care & Maintenance
Needs a thorough cleaning with a non-abrasive cream like Wright's Silver Cream followed by a warm soapy water wash.
Similar Pieces
Gorham Purcell pattern pitchers or Poole Silver Co. melon-waisted jugs; similar in form but differing in handle detail.
Interesting Facts
Water pitchers of this style were staple wedding gifts in mid-20th century America, intended for use at formal dinner parties.