International Silver Co. DeepSilver 'La France' (possibly variation) Silverplate Teaspoon
Flatware - Teaspoon · International Silver Company (IS), Meriden, Connecticut. IS was a conglomerate formed in 1898 merging many silver manufacturers including Rogers, Holmes & Edwards, and Meriden Britannia. They were a titan of the American silver industry known for both high-grade sterling and ubiquitous household silverplate.
Pattern: Likely 'La France' or a similar mid-century modernist floral/scroll pattern from the DeepSilver line. Many patterns from this era featured asymmetrical floral motifs at the neck and tip.
Type
Flatware - Teaspoon
Maker
International Silver Company (IS), Meriden, Connecticut. IS was a conglomerate formed in 1898 merging many silver manufacturers including Rogers, Holmes & Edwards, and Meriden Britannia. They were a titan of the American silver industry known for both high-grade sterling and ubiquitous household silverplate.
Material
DeepSilver (heavy silver electroplate). This is high-quality silverplate that features an inlay of sterling silver at the most common wear points (the back of the bowl and the handle heel) to prevent 'bleeding' of the base metal. The base is likely nickel silver.
Dimensions
Standard Teaspoon length of approximately 6 inches (15.2 cm). Estimated weight is 30-40 grams. It is typical for standard American place settings.
Description
This is a classic American silverplated teaspoon from International Silver's premium 'DeepSilver' line. Designed for the mid-century hostess, it combines the luxury look of silver with industrial-age durability. The design features a delicate floral spray at the shoulder, leading into a smooth, unadorned handle that reflects the period's trend toward simplified elegance.
Key Features
The 'DeepSilver' mark is the primary identifier, indicating the piece has sterling silver inlays at wear points. The asymmetrical floral design is a diagnostic feature of the mid-20th-century floral-modernist style.
Material & Composition
DeepSilver (heavy silver electroplate). This is high-quality silverplate that features an inlay of sterling silver at the most common wear points (the back of the bowl and the handle heel) to prevent 'bleeding' of the base metal. The base is likely nickel silver.
Finish & Decoration
The piece features a satin/brushed finish on the handle with a mirror-polished bowl. The decoration is a Mid-Century Modern floral relief near the neck of the spoon. The style is late Art Deco transitioning into Mid-Century Modernism.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The back of the handle is stamped 'IS DEEPSILVER' or similar International Silver company marks. It lacks a 'Sterling' mark or '.925' fineness stamp, confirming it is silverplate and not solid silver.
Construction Details
Die-struck and machine-manufactured. This was produced in large quantities using heavy industrial presses. The bowl was shaped and the pattern embossed simultaneously under high pressure.
Functional Features
Standard egg-shaped bowl for tea or coffee service. The 'DeepSilver' feature provides extra durability for heavy daily use compared to standard electroplate.
Handle & Grip Details
A solid, tapered handle with a rounded end. The grip is slightly contoured for ergonomic comfort, characteristic of post-WWII American flatware design.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-made precision. The pattern is crisp and well-defined, and the balance is excellent, demonstrating International Silver's high manufacturing standards for their premium lines.
Authentication Indicators
The 'IS' mark and font are consistent with mid-century production. The weight and thickness are correct for a high-quality silverplate piece rather than a modern cheap stainless steel replica.
Origin & Manufacturing
USA, Meriden, Connecticut. Produced at one of International Silver's large-scale manufacturing facilities during the peak of American industrial silver production.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (c. 1950s-1970s). The sleek lines and stylized botanical elements suggest a post-war American aesthetic aimed at the suburban middle class.
Age Estimate
Circa 1955-1965. This timeframe corresponds with the height of the DeepSilver marketing campaigns and the specific curvilinear floral style shown.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Silver Age' of middle-class American dining, where silverplated sets were essential wedding registry items and status symbols for suburban households.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Significant surface tarnish and oxidation are visible. The bowl shows heavy 'frosting' or pitting from moisture and storage. No visible 'brassing' (base metal showing through), indicating the plate is still largely intact. Grade: Good.
Value Estimate
$2 - $8 USD. As a single plated spoon in average condition, its value is mainly functional or for completing a set. Full sets (place settings for 8 or 12) have higher collective value.
Care & Maintenance
Polish with a mild cream like Wright's Silver Cream. Avoid chemical dips as they can damage the satin finish. Hand wash only; dishwasher detergents contain abrasives that will strip the silverplate over time.
Similar Pieces
Oneida Community Plate (Morning Star), Gorham Silverplate, or Reed & Barton Silverplate. These competitors offered similar floral-modernist designs at similar price points.
Interesting Facts
The 'DeepSilver' line was marketed as 'silverplate that will never wear out' because of the secret sterling silver blocks inlaid at the back of the bowl and handle before the final plating process.