Mid-Century Modern Stainless Steel or Silver Plated Iced Tea Spoon
Flatware (Iced Tea/Parfait Spoon) · Unidentified (Possible mass-market manufacturer like Oneida, International Silver, or a contemporary kitchenware brand)
Pattern: Modernist Tapered Handle; Generic contemporary design
Type
Flatware (Iced Tea/Parfait Spoon)
Maker
Unidentified (Possible mass-market manufacturer like Oneida, International Silver, or a contemporary kitchenware brand)
Material
Likely Stainless Steel (18/10 or 18/0) or Silver Plated base metal; lacks the warm patina of solid sterling silver
Dimensions
Estimated length: 7.5 to 8.5 inches (19-21 cm); estimated weight: 35-50 grams; standard long-handle drink spoon size
Description
A utilitarian iced tea spoon featuring an elongated, slender neck and a simple, tapered handle. Designed for modern casual dining, it prioritizes ergonomics and ease of maintenance over ornate decoration.
Key Features
Long reach handle, high-shine finish, absence of transition collar between bowl and stem, modern flat-profile handle
Material & Composition
Likely Stainless Steel (18/10 or 18/0) or Silver Plated base metal; lacks the warm patina of solid sterling silver
Finish & Decoration
Mirror polish finish with a minimalist, unadorned aesthetic; no visible engraving or chasing
Hallmarks & Stamps
Indistinct stamping on the back of the handle; likely reads 'Stainless' or 'EPNS' (Electroplated Nickel Silver)
Construction Details
Machine-stamped and die-struck from a single sheet of metal; edges appear rounded by industrial tumbling
Functional Features
Elongated handle for reaching the bottom of tall tumblers or soda glasses; small elliptical bowl
Handle & Grip Details
Flat, tapering handle with a square or slightly rounded tip; integral to the bowl (monobloc construction)
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial quality; uniform machine stamping with no evidence of hand-finishing or smithing
Authentication Indicators
Lack of traditional silver hallmarks (like a lion passant or '925' stamp); high-sheen reflection is typical of chromium-based stainless steel
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely mass-produced in East Asia (China or Vietnam) or a large-scale American factory like Oneida's later-period facilities
Era & Period
Late 20th Century to Contemporary (Post-1970); follows the minimalist utilitarian trend
Age Estimate
Circa 1990-2020; the lack of tarnish and typical industrial silhouette suggests modern manufacture
Cultural Significance
Represents the shift from ornate Victorian 'specialized' silver to the functional, dishwasher-safe requirements of the modern household
Condition Notes
Good condition; shows minor surface 'flea bites' and light scratching consistent with everyday use and machine washing
Value Estimate
$1.00 - $5.00 (Standard utilitarian market value; no significant bullion or antique premium)
Care & Maintenance
Dishwasher safe if stainless; if plated, hand wash with mild detergent and dry immediately to prevent spotting
Similar Pieces
Oneida 'Flight' pattern (more curved), Gorham 'Studio' (heavier weight), or basic restaurant supply flatware
Interesting Facts
The iced tea spoon became an essential part of American flatware services in the early 20th century as iced tea became a staple of Southern hospitality and summer dining