Jacobi & Jenkins Repoussé Floral Sterling Silver Oval Platter
Hollowware: Oval Platter / Serving Tray · Jacobi & Jenkins, a prominent Baltimore silversmith firm founded by William F. Jacobi in the late 19th century. Known for high-quality repoussé work in the Baltimore silver-making tradition.
Pattern: Baltimore Rose / Multi-Floral Repoussé pattern; stylized with varying blossoms including roses, daisies, and ferns; out of production.
Type
Hollowware: Oval Platter / Serving Tray
Maker
Jacobi & Jenkins, a prominent Baltimore silversmith firm founded by William F. Jacobi in the late 19th century. Known for high-quality repoussé work in the Baltimore silver-making tradition.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity); solid silver construction without base metals.
Dimensions
Standard large serving size; estimated 14-18 inches in length; weight likely ranges from 800 to 1,200 grams based on gauge and size.
Description
A magnificent example of Baltimore silversmithing, this oval platter features a dense, high-relief border of meticulously crafted flowers and ferns. The intricate texture contrasts beautifully with the central mirror-finished well, which bears a classic period script monogram. This piece represents the pinnacle of late 19th-century American luxury dining, showcasing the labor-intensive hand-work typical of Jacobi & Jenkins.
Key Features
Deeply embossed multi-flower border, signature Baltimore-style chasing, and clear Jacobi & Jenkins maker's mark.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity); solid silver construction without base metals.
Finish & Decoration
Heavy repoussé and chased border featuring high-relief floral and foliage motifs; bright-cut script monogram in the center; mirror-polished well with light surface patina/scratches.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'JACOBI & JENKINS' in block letters, topped with an anchor-style maker's symbol, and 'STERLING' purity mark below.
Construction Details
Hand-raised and chased; the high-relief border is created through repoussé (hammering from the back) and finishing with chasing (detailing from the front).
Functional Features
Wide decorative rim for handling; deep well for holding juices of meats or vegetables; stable flat base.
Handle & Grip Details
Integral scalloped edge border serves as the grip; solid sterling silver construction.
Craftsmanship Details
Superb hand-chased execution; evidence of hand-tooling in the intricate petal textures and three-dimensional relief of the border elements.
Authentication Indicators
Authentic period hallmarks with sharp stamping; construction wear consistent with age; tool marks visible in the recesses of the hand-chased border.
Origin & Manufacturing
Baltimore, Maryland, USA; central hub for the American repoussé silver tradition influenced by Kirk & Son.
Era & Period
Late Victorian to Edwardian (c. 1890-1910); reflects the Gilded Age preference for ornate, floral-heavy ornamentation.
Age Estimate
Circa 1895-1905; based on the firm's active years and popularity of the thick floral repoussé style.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Baltimore Style' which became a symbol of Southern hospitality and status in the United States during the late 19th century.
Condition Notes
Very Good; significant surface scratches in the well consistent with kitchen use and cleaning; some tarnish in the deep recesses of the floral border; no apparent deep dents or cracks.
Value Estimate
Market value ranges from $1,200 to $2,500 depending on total troy weight and current silver spot prices; high demand for Baltimore-style repoussé among collectors.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft sponge and mild soap; use a high-quality silver cream like Wright's with a soft brush specifically for the floral recesses; store in Pacific Silvercloth to prevent tarnish.
Similar Pieces
S. Kirk & Son 'Repoussé' patterns, Stieff 'Rose', or Schofield floral pieces; these differ primarily in the specific arrangement of flowers and maker's hallmarks.
Interesting Facts
Jacobi & Jenkins was often considered a direct competitor to the more famous S. Kirk & Son and Stieff companies in Baltimore, often producing work of equal or superior gauge and detail.