Victorian Style Lion Mask Monteith Bowl with Cherub Rim
Hollowware (Monteith Bowl) · Likely a European or American manufacturer of Victorian revival silver. Patterns suggest common motifs used by firms like Barker-Ellis, Reed & Barton, or Sheffield reproduction houses.
Pattern: Traditional Monteith Pattern featuring a scalloped (crenelated) rim, gadroon molding, and lion-mask handles.
Type
Hollowware (Monteith Bowl)
Maker
Likely a European or American manufacturer of Victorian revival silver. Patterns suggest common motifs used by firms like Barker-Ellis, Reed & Barton, or Sheffield reproduction houses.
Material
Heavily tarnished silver, likely Silver Plate (EPNS or Sheffield Plate) given the color of the oxide and the scale of the piece; could be Sterling Silver (.925) pending hallmark verification.
Dimensions
Estimated 10-12 inches in diameter and 8-10 inches in height. If plated, it will be heavy due to a copper or nickel base; if sterling, likely 40-60 troy ounces.
Description
A grand and imposing Monteith bowl featuring a deep body and a distinctive notched rim. The rim is embellished with scrollwork and cherub faces, while the mid-section is defined by a crisp gadroon border. The piece is grounded by two fierce lion-mask handles holding loose rings, resting on a sturdy domed foot.
Key Features
The 'Monteith' notched rim is the primary diagnostic feature. The lion-mask handles and cherub motifs identify it as a high-style dining accessory intended for formal entertainment.
Material & Composition
Heavily tarnished silver, likely Silver Plate (EPNS or Sheffield Plate) given the color of the oxide and the scale of the piece; could be Sterling Silver (.925) pending hallmark verification.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish base with heavy tarnish; features repoussé/cast cherub heads on a scalloped rim, gadroon beading around the body, and cast lion-mask drop-ring handles. The interior appears gold-washed (vermeil).
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not clearly visible in the image, but usually found on the underside of the base or nestled near the rim. Likely includes a maker's mark and a fineness stamp (e.g., 'Sterling' or 'EPNS').
Construction Details
Multi-part construction including a raised or spun bowl, set on a cast pedestal base. Handles and rim ornaments are separately cast and soldered (applied decoration).
Functional Features
Specifically designed with a notched rim to allow wine glasses to hang by their feet into iced water for chilling, avoiding damage to the bowls.
Handle & Grip Details
Two cast lion-mask handles with articulated drop-rings (loose rings), typical of late 17th-century revival styles. Secured via silver solder to the main body.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality die-stamped rim and well-defined cast handles. The gadroon band appears machine-applied but hand-finished at the seams.
Authentication Indicators
The crispness of the casting and the presence of a double-rim suggests quality production. The uneven tarnish is typical of silver that has been stored in open air for decades.
Origin & Manufacturing
Most likely England (Sheffield/Birmingham) or the United States (New England silver centers).
Era & Period
Late Victorian or Edwardian (1880-1915) Revival of the Queen Anne period style (c. 1700-1715).
Age Estimate
Circa 1890-1920 based on the decorative casting quality and the revivalist style.
Cultural Significance
Represents the height of formal dining etiquette in the 18th and 19th centuries, emphasizing the luxury of chilled glassware and imported wines.
Condition Notes
Very Good structural condition with heavy tarnish/oxidization overall. There is some potential 'bleeding' of base metal visible on high points of the lion masks, suggesting it is silver plate under heavy tarnish.
Value Estimate
If Silver Plate: $250 - $600; if Sterling Silver: $2,500 - $5,000 based on weight and maker prestige.
Care & Maintenance
Requires deep cleaning with a high-quality silver cream (e.g., Wright's) and a soft horsehair brush for the crevices of the lion masks. Avoid silver dips which may strip the gold wash from the interior.
Similar Pieces
Punch bowls (smooth rims), Revere bowls (no handles), and standard fruit bowls. Distinguishable by the crenelated rim uniquely designed for glass stems.
Interesting Facts
The Monteith bowl was named after a 17th-century Scotsman, 'Monsieur Monteigh,' who was known for wearing a cloak with a scalloped hem similar to the bowl's rim.