Wallace Silversmiths Rose Pattern Sterling Silver Flatware Piece
Flatware - Serving Piece / Utensil · Wallace Silversmiths, founded in 1835 by Robert Wallace in Wallingford, Connecticut. Known for exceptional craftsmanship, innovative patterns, and historical significance as one of America's premier silversmithing companies.
Pattern: Traditional floral and scroll decorative motif, highly sought after by collectors of mid-20th-century American sterling flatware.
Type
Flatware - Serving Piece / Utensil
Maker
Wallace Silversmiths, founded in 1835 by Robert Wallace in Wallingford, Connecticut. Known for exceptional craftsmanship, innovative patterns, and historical significance as one of America's premier silversmithing companies.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 fineness), standard composition of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% copper for durability.
Dimensions
Standard sizing for an American sterling flatware service piece. Weight is commensurate with standard solid sterling construction, typically ranging between 40 to 80 grams depending on the specific form.
Description
An elegant sterling silver flatware piece by Wallace Silversmiths, showcasing a finely detailed floral and scroll motif on the terminal handle. The juxtaposition of high-polish fields with deeply chased ornamentation highlights the manufacturer's attention to detail and commitment to classic design.
Key Features
Distinctive 'RW&S' maker's mark, crisp floral repoussé detailing, heavy gauge sterling silver construction, and classic American flatware proportions.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 fineness), standard composition of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% copper for durability.
Finish & Decoration
Mirror polish on the smooth areas with crisp, detailed repoussé and chased floral motifs in a traditional Victorian-revival or classic American style.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Clearly marked with the Wallace maker's mark (stylized 'RW&S' for Robert Wallace & Sons) enclosed in a shield or cartouche, along with the word 'STERLING'.
Construction Details
Die-struck handles with hand-finished details and applied or integral working ends, standard for high-end American commercial flatware production of the era.
Functional Features
Designed for ergonomic balance and practical dining use, featuring a comfortable handle contour and well-proportioned terminal.
Handle & Grip Details
Solid sterling silver handle featuring ornate floral scrollwork near the terminal, offering a secure and balanced grip.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality commercial silversmithing with sharp, deep die-striking and careful hand-finishing in the recesses of the floral motifs.
Authentication Indicators
Clear punch of the 'STERLING' standard mark alongside the authentic 'RW&S' maker's mark in a shaped cartouche, matching known period touchmarks for Wallace Silversmiths.
Origin & Manufacturing
Made in Wallingford, Connecticut, United States, by Wallace Silversmiths following traditional American sterling manufacturing standards.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century / Traditional Revival style, incorporating classic elements popularized during the late Victorian and Edwardian periods.
Age Estimate
Circa 1930-1960, determined by the style of the maker's mark and the popular production era for this style of Wallace flatware.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the mid-20th-century American tradition of formal dining, wedding registries, and the accumulation of fine sterling silver flatware sets as a symbol of domestic prosperity.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent vintage condition. Minor surface micro-scratches consistent with gentle use and polishing over time, but structurally sound with no deep dings, splits, or repairs.
Value Estimate
Estimated between $45 to $150 USD depending on the specific form (e.g., spoon, fork, or serving piece) and current silver bullion market prices.
Care & Maintenance
Wash by hand in warm water with mild dish soap and dry immediately with a soft cloth. Store in tarnish-resistant flannel or a Pacific Silvercloth chest. Polish occasionally with a quality cream like Wright's.
Similar Pieces
Gorham Chantilly, International Royal Danish, and Reed & Barton Francis I patterns.
Interesting Facts
Robert Wallace began his career making pewter spoons before transitioning to silver, eventually building Wallace Silversmiths into one of the dominant forces in American silverware.