International Silver Teddy Bear 'Baby' Cup
Hollowware (Baby Cup / Christening Mug) · International Silver Company (founded 1898 in Meriden, CT). They were the world's largest manufacturer of silverware in the early 20th century, incorporating multiple prestigious lines including Webster, Wilcox, and Rogers.
Pattern: Teddy Bear / Novelty Nursery series, specifically featuring the 'BABY' script flanked by floral engraving.
Type
Hollowware (Baby Cup / Christening Mug)
Maker
International Silver Company (founded 1898 in Meriden, CT). They were the world's largest manufacturer of silverware in the early 20th century, incorporating multiple prestigious lines including Webster, Wilcox, and Rogers.
Material
Likely Silver Plate (EPNS - Electroplated Nickel Silver) or possibly Pewter. The interior coloration and surface wear suggest a non-sterling base metal, common for mass-marketed 20th-century nursery items.
Dimensions
Standard baby cup size: approximately 2.5 to 3 inches in height with a 2-inch diameter. Estimated weight: 100-150 grams.
Description
A charming nursery cup featuring a figural teddy bear that serves as the handle. The cylindrical body is decorated with the word 'BABY' in a whimsical font, framed by delicate floral sprigs. It represents a classic piece of Americana giftware, often gifted as a 'first cup' at baby showers or christenings.
Key Features
Figural bear handle, flared stable base, and the prominent machine-engraved 'BABY' script.
Material & Composition
Likely Silver Plate (EPNS - Electroplated Nickel Silver) or possibly Pewter. The interior coloration and surface wear suggest a non-sterling base metal, common for mass-marketed 20th-century nursery items.
Finish & Decoration
Polished finish with machine-etched or stamped engraving. The central cartouche features the word 'BABY' in a stylized script, surrounded by a floral and vine motif. The handle is a figural cast teddy bear.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Typically marked on the underside with 'International Silver Co.' logo and 'Silverplate' or 'EP'. It lacks a 'Sterling' or '925' stamp, which is the primary indicator of silver purity.
Construction Details
Spun metal body with a rolled rim and a machine-stamped flared base. The figural bear handle is cast separately and soldered to the body.
Functional Features
Wide, flared base for stability (to prevent tipping by toddlers) and a chunky, figural handle designed for easy gripping by small hands.
Handle & Grip Details
Figural teddy bear grip; cast metal with textured 'fur' details. Solder points are visible where the bear's arms and feet meet the cup body.
Craftsmanship Details
Commercial grade construction. The soldering of the handle is functional but not seamless, and the engraving is shallow machine-work rather than hand-chasing.
Authentication Indicators
Identification relies on the specific Teddy Bear cast handle design, which is a known catalog item for International Silver during the late 20th century.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States or possibly an overseas facility in the later production years of the International Silver Company.
Era & Period
Late Mid-Century to Contemporary (c. 1970 - 2000). The font style and the anthropomorphic teddy bear are characteristic of late 20th-century giftware.
Age Estimate
Circa 1975-1995. The machine engraving and specific 'teddy' motif became popular gift items during this era.
Cultural Significance
Represents the consumer 'baby gift' culture of the 20th century, symbolizing heritage and the celebration of new life through enduring (though affordable) metalware.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Visible surface scratches (scuffing) typical of use. The rim appears slightly uneven. Tarnish is light, but some wear-through to the base metal may be present given the 'grey' undertone in the image.
Value Estimate
$10 - $25 USD. These are widely available on the secondary market and value is largely sentimental rather than based on precious metal content.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water. If silver plated, avoid harsh abrasives. Use a soft cloth and a gentle paste like Wright's Silver Cream to restore luster without removing plating.
Similar Pieces
Reed & Barton 'Teddy Bear' cups (often higher quality), Wallace Silversmiths nursery line, or Gorham Sterling 'Noah's Ark' series.
Interesting Facts
Baby cups have been a tradition since the 18th century to celebrate survival through infancy; however, by the late 20th century, they became standard novelty gifts for middle-class families.