International Silver Co. Rococo Revival Silver-Plated Footed Trinket Box with Mirror
Jewelry/Vanity Box; Hollowware · International Silver Company (IS). Established in 1898 in Meriden, Connecticut, it was a conglomerate of many American silver manufacturers. They were known for high-volume production ranging from luxury sterling to affordable silver-plated giftware.
Pattern: Rococo Scroll and Floral pattern; often sold as un-named giftware late 20th century. Not part of a primary dinnerware pattern line.
Type
Jewelry/Vanity Box; Hollowware
Maker
International Silver Company (IS). Established in 1898 in Meriden, Connecticut, it was a conglomerate of many American silver manufacturers. They were known for high-volume production ranging from luxury sterling to affordable silver-plated giftware.
Material
Silver-plated base metal (likely white metal, spelter, or zinc alloy). It is an electroplated piece rather than solid sterling silver.
Dimensions
Approximately 4 inches in diameter, 2.5 inches in height. Estimated weight 250-350 grams due to heavy base metal casting.
Description
A charming oval trinket box designed in the ornate Rococo style. The exterior is heavily decorated with cast floral and scroll motifs, finished with an antiqued silver wash to highlight the deep recesses. The interior features a practical mirror and a vibrant red plush lining, making it a classic vanity accessory for rings and small treasures.
Key Features
Heart-shaped front cartouche (often left blank for engraving), integrated vanity mirror, four curved cabriole feet, and high-relief floral casting.
Material & Composition
Silver-plated base metal (likely white metal, spelter, or zinc alloy). It is an electroplated piece rather than solid sterling silver.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized bright-cut look with high-relief repoussé style casting. Features C-scrolls, floral swags, acanthus leaves, and a central heart-shaped cartouche. Rococo Revival style with a matte/satin interior lid finish.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually stamped 'IS', 'International Silver', or 'Silver City' on the underside, often accompanied by 'Japan' or 'Hong Kong' if from the 1970s-80s production era. No sterling lion or 925 marks are visible.
Construction Details
Die-cast components. The body and legs are cast as separate or integrated units; the hinge is a standard pin hinge tension-soldered to the lid and body. Machine-assembled.
Functional Features
Hinged lid with an integrated glass mirror on the interior; red satin/polyester fabric lining designed to protect jewelry from scratches.
Handle & Grip Details
Lid features a scalloped edge for easy lifting; four integrated cabriole-style feet provide stability and lift.
Craftsmanship Details
Mass-produced cast quality. The detail is crisp but lacks the hand-chased refinement found in antique Victorian originals. The mirror is glued into place rather than bezel-set.
Authentication Indicators
The lack of 'Sterling' or '925' marks, combined with the visible casting seams and typical 'International Silver' giftware styling, confirms this is a silver-plated item rather than solid precious metal.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely manufactured in Japan or Hong Kong under contract for the International Silver Company, USA. These were popular mid-market gift items sold in department stores like Sears or Macy's.
Era & Period
Late 20th Century (Post-War Revival). While the style is 'Rococo Revival', the manufacturing techniques and lining material place it in the 1960s-1980s.
Age Estimate
Circa 1970-1985 based on the style of the mirror glass and the synthetic red fabric lining.
Cultural Significance
Represents the mid-to-late 20th-century trend of 'Affordable Luxury', where homeowners could own pieces that mimicked the grand silver styles of the 18th century at a fraction of the cost.
Condition Notes
Good decorative condition. Mirror shows light surface scratching. Silver plating shows 'pitting' or oxidation spots typical of cast white metal. Red lining is slightly rumpled but intact.
Value Estimate
$15.00 - $35.00 USD. Value is driven by decorative appeal and 'shabby chic' utility rather than silver weight or rarity.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft damp cloth. Avoid heavy silver dips which can strip the thin plating and damage the glue holding the mirror and lining. Use a dry silver polishing cloth for the exterior.
Similar Pieces
Godinger Silver Art Co. trinket boxes or Leonard Silver plated boxes. These often use the same base metal alloys and similar Victorian/Rococo motifs.
Interesting Facts
These boxes were ubiquitous as bridesmaids' gifts and 'Sweet 16' presents in the 1970s. Despite their mass production, they remain popular for their romantic, vintage aesthetic.