Reed & Barton Silverplated Bowl Model 102
Hollowware (Bowl) · Reed & Barton, prominent American silversmiths founded in Taunton, Massachusetts, in 1824, known for high-quality hollowware and flatware production.
Pattern: Utility or generic decorative hollowware line, designated by pattern/model number 102.
Type
Hollowware (Bowl)
Maker
Reed & Barton, prominent American silversmiths founded in Taunton, Massachusetts, in 1824, known for high-quality hollowware and flatware production.
Material
Silverplate over a base metal, likely nickel silver or brass, indicated by the typical manufacturer marks for plated wares.
Dimensions
Estimated small-to-medium bowl, approximately 12 to 15 cm in diameter and 5 cm in height, weighing roughly 150 to 250 grams.
Description
A charming and functional silverplated footed bowl by the renowned American maker Reed & Barton. Featuring a smooth, circular basin elevated on a stepped circular foot rim, this piece exemplifies clean utilitarian elegance. The underside displays the manufacturer hallmark alongside the production number 102. Showing noticeable natural tarnish and patina, it remains a sturdy and elegant example of vintage American table silver.
Key Features
Clear Reed & Barton maker stamp, model number 102, classic footed bowl silhouette, durable silverplate construction.
Material & Composition
Silverplate over a base metal, likely nickel silver or brass, indicated by the typical manufacturer marks for plated wares.
Finish & Decoration
Smooth polished finish with a rounded, footed bowl design, exhibiting a classic mid-20th-century aesthetic without heavy ornamentation.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The underside clearly stamps the maker name 'REED & BARTON' in a sans-serif font, accompanied by the design or mold number '102'.
Construction Details
Machine-pressed or spun hollowware body with an applied or formed foot ring, typical of mid-century industrial silverplate production.
Functional Features
Footed base for elevation, suitable for serving nuts, candies, small side dishes, or functioning as a decorative catch-all.
Handle & Grip Details
No handles; simple, clean, continuous rim designed for easy hand-holding and passing at a table.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard commercial production quality, featuring clean lines, even wall thickness achieved via spinning or pressing, and a securely attached foot rim.
Authentication Indicators
The stamped block lettering 'REED & BARTON' combined with the numeric model code '102' matches authentic mid-century production standards of the company.
Origin & Manufacturing
Made in Taunton, Massachusetts, USA, by the Reed & Barton manufacturing company.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (1945-1970) or late Art Deco transitional styling, based on the font style of the hallmark and manufacturing conventions.
Age Estimate
Circa mid-20th century, likely 1940s to 1960s based on the stamped typography.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the post-WWII American dining culture where accessible silverplated hollowware became a staple of middle-class home entertaining.
Condition Notes
Good vintage condition. Displays moderate to heavy natural tarnish, surface hairline scratches, and minor wear consistent with age and use, but no major dents, structural splits, or plating loss.
Value Estimate
Estimated market value ranges between $20 and $50 USD depending on the platform, collector demand, and condition after a thorough polish.
Care & Maintenance
Clean gently with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Apply a quality silver polish specifically formulated for silverplate to restore shine without wearing down the plated layer. Store in a dry environment.
Similar Pieces
Similar footed bowls and dishes produced by International Silver Co., Wallace, and Oneida during the mid-20th century.
Interesting Facts
Reed & Barton supplied silver and tableware to prominent American institutions, including the White House during various administrations.