International Silver Co. Sterling Silver Gravy Ladle in Floral Pattern
Flatware (Serving Piece - Gravy Ladle) · International Silver Company, a prominent American manufacturer formed in 1898 by the consolidation of many major silver companies, known for high quality and extensive production of both sterling and silver-plated flatware and hollowware.
Pattern: Unidentified floral and scroll pattern, likely late 19th or early 20th century production from one of International Silver's constituent or subsidiary lines.
Type
Flatware (Serving Piece - Gravy Ladle)
Maker
International Silver Company, a prominent American manufacturer formed in 1898 by the consolidation of many major silver companies, known for high quality and extensive production of both sterling and silver-plated flatware and hollowware.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity)
Dimensions
Standard gravy ladle size, approximately 6 to 7 inches in length, weighing roughly 40 to 60 grams.
Description
An elegant antique American sterling silver gravy ladle featuring a beautifully decorated floral and scroll handle terminal. The bowl is smoothly polished with a flared pouring lip on one side for functional precision. Displayed alongside a knife and a pie/cake server, this piece exemplifies the ornate serving utensils popular during the turn of the 20th century.
Key Features
Distinctive floral and scroll handle relief, side-lipped pouring bowl design, solid sterling silver composition.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity)
Finish & Decoration
Polished bowl with cast and chased floral, scroll, and leaf motifs along the handle terminal in a Late Victorian or Art Nouveau transitional aesthetic.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Standard American sterling marks typically located on the reverse side of the handle, though not clearly legible in this photograph.
Construction Details
Die-struck handle with a hand-soldered or integrally shaped bowl, typical of late 19th to early 20th-century commercial American flatware manufacturing.
Functional Features
Spouted or shaped bowl designed for pouring sauces, gravies, or dressings smoothly without spilling.
Handle & Grip Details
Solid sterling silver handle with an ergonomic flared terminal and detailed floral repoussé and chased decoration.
Craftsmanship Details
Good commercial-grade craftsmanship featuring sharp relief in the casting and smooth finishing on the bowl interior.
Authentication Indicators
Proportions, weight, and decorative casting quality are consistent with authentic late Victorian/Edwardian American sterling silver flatware.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States, produced by the International Silver Co. or one of its historic constituent factories in Connecticut.
Era & Period
Victorian Era or Edwardian Period (circa 1890-1910), indicated by the organic floral motifs and flowing scrollwork.
Age Estimate
Circa 1890 to 1915, based on the decorative style and manufacturing standards of the period.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the elaborate dining rituals and middle-to-upper-class domestic standards of the late 19th and early 20th centuries in America.
Condition Notes
Very good antique condition with minor surface scratches and light tarnish consistent with age and gentle use. No major structural damage or repairs visible.
Value Estimate
Estimated market value ranges between $40 to $90 USD depending on exact weight, maker mark clarity, and current collector demand.
Care & Maintenance
Hand wash with mild dish soap and warm water, dry immediately with a soft cloth. Polish occasionally with a reputable silver cream such as Wright's Silver Cream and store in an anti-tarnish pouch.
Similar Pieces
Similar floral patterns produced by Gorham, Reed & Barton, and Tiffany & Co. from the same era.
Interesting Facts
Gravy ladles with specialized spouts became increasingly popular during the Victorian era as formal dining placed a high emphasis on specialized serving utensils for every course.