Forbes Silver Co. Quadruple Plate Scalloped Footed Bowl
Hollowware (Bowl/Sweetmeat Dish) · Forbes Silver Co. (Meriden, Conn.). Founded in 1894 as a division of the Meriden Britannia Co. and later became one of the original constituent companies of the International Silver Co. in 1898. Known for producing high-quality Victorian silver-plated Victorian-era hollowware.
Pattern: Pattern No. 2948 (Numerical catalog designation); characteristic of late Victorian floral and lobed geometric designs.
Type
Hollowware (Bowl/Sweetmeat Dish)
Maker
Forbes Silver Co. (Meriden, Conn.). Founded in 1894 as a division of the Meriden Britannia Co. and later became one of the original constituent companies of the International Silver Co. in 1898. Known for producing high-quality Victorian silver-plated Victorian-era hollowware.
Material
Quadruple Silver Plate on White Metal (Antimony/Tin/Lead alloy). 'Quadruple Plate' was a marketing term indicating a higher standard of silver deposition thickness compared to standard electroplate.
Dimensions
Estimated 6-8 inches in diameter; height approximately 3-4 inches. Weight primarily consists of base metal ( Britannia metal), typically 300-500 grams for this form.
Description
A classic example of American Victorian plated hollowware, this Forbes Silver Co. bowl features a lobed, scalloped profile that was popular for buffet and parlor service. The piece is marked with the prestigious 'Quadruple Plate' designation, suggesting it was intended for the middle-to-upper class market of the 1890s.
Key Features
Distinctive Forbes Silver Co. circular mark, 'Quadruple Plate' silvering standard, and the catalog series number 2948.
Material & Composition
Quadruple Silver Plate on White Metal (Antimony/Tin/Lead alloy). 'Quadruple Plate' was a marketing term indicating a higher standard of silver deposition thickness compared to standard electroplate.
Finish & Decoration
High polish silver finish (now heavily tarnished/oxidized). Features a scalloped or lobed 'cloud' shape rim and base. Victorian aesthetic with smooth central field and likely repoussé or chased details on the exterior facing (not fully visible).
Hallmarks & Stamps
Circular stamped mark: 'FORBES SILVER CO. / MERIDEN, CONN.' encircling a central eagle or balance scale icon. Includes text 'QUADRUPLE PLATE' and the production/catalog number '2948'.
Construction Details
Machine-pressed or die-struck body with a soldered scalloped foot. Electroplated with fine silver after assembly. Typical factory-scale production common in the Meriden silver industry.
Functional Features
Scalloped foot for stability; flared rim for ease of serving. Designed for dry goods such as fruit, bread, or candies.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A (Open bowl form); handle seen in background appears to be a separate object or a decorative bale handle characteristic of Victorian baskets.
Craftsmanship Details
Commercial grade manufacturing. High quality for plate, evidenced by the crispness of the stamp and the symmetry of the scalloped lobes.
Authentication Indicators
Genuine factory stamps; correct font style for the late 19th-century Meriden industry; natural wear patterns on the resting surface of the foot.
Origin & Manufacturing
Meriden, Connecticut, USA. Known as 'The Silver City,' Meriden was the global hub for plated silver production in the late 19th century.
Era & Period
Late Victorian / Gilded Age (c. 1894-1910). The use of 'Quadruple Plate' and the specific Forbes logo are definitive markers of this American manufacturing era.
Age Estimate
Circa 1894-1905. The Forbes company was absorbed into International Silver in 1898, though the brand name continued to be used into the early 20th century.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the late 19th-century trend of 'democratizing luxury,' where electroplating allowed middle-class families to own items that mimicked the appearance of solid sterling silver used by the elite.
Condition Notes
Fair condition. Significant 'plate loss' and heavy oxidation/tarnish are visible on the base. Possible 'bleeding' where the base metal is showing through the silver layer due to over-polishing or chemical reaction.
Value Estimate
$20 - $45 USD. Value is limited by its status as silver plate rather than sterling, and the significant condition issues on the finish.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild non-abrasive silver cream (e.g., Wright's). Avoid over-polishing as 'Quadruple Plate' is still a thin layer that can be worn away to the grey base metal underneath. Do not use in a dishwasher.
Similar Pieces
Meriden Britannia Co. No. 1800 series; Reed & Barton Winthrop pattern (plated); Gorham 'Plymouth' plated line.
Interesting Facts
The Forbes Silver Co. was one of the 16 companies that merged to form the International Silver Company, which eventually became the largest silver manufacturer in the world.