Reed & Barton King Francis Pattern Silver-Plated Hollowware Piece (1685)
Hollowware (likely a Bowl, Compote, or Tureen base) · Reed & Barton Silversmiths, founded in 1824 in Taunton, Massachusetts. A premier American manufacturer known for high-quality sterling and silver-plated goods.
Pattern: King Francis, pattern number 1685. This pattern is a silver-plated adaptation of the famous Francis I sterling silver pattern introduced in 1907.
Type
Hollowware (likely a Bowl, Compote, or Tureen base)
Maker
Reed & Barton Silversmiths, founded in 1824 in Taunton, Massachusetts. A premier American manufacturer known for high-quality sterling and silver-plated goods.
Material
Silver Plate (Electroplated Nickel Silver or Copper). The blue foil sticker explicitly states 'WORLD'S FINEST SILVER PLATED WARE' and 'MADE IN USA'.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter of base: 4 to 6 inches. Weight varies by the specific form of the 1685 line, but silver-plated hollowware is generally substantial and heavy.
Description
This piece originates from the prestigious King Francis collection by Reed & Barton, which was developed to offer the ornate luxury of the Francis I sterling pattern in a more accessible silver-plated format. The underside reveals the hallmark of quality from a legendary American maker.
Key Features
Identification of the '1685' model number and the 'King Francis' script signature. The presence of the original paper/foil label is a significant indicator of industrial provenance.
Material & Composition
Silver Plate (Electroplated Nickel Silver or Copper). The blue foil sticker explicitly states 'WORLD'S FINEST SILVER PLATED WARE' and 'MADE IN USA'.
Finish & Decoration
Originally mirror-polished silver plate with Renaissance-inspired decorative motifs typical of the King Francis line, including fruit and floral clusters. Currently showing heavy tarnish and oxidation.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'REED & BARTON', model number '1685', and pattern name 'King Francis' in script. Includes an original blue and silver foil manufacturer's label.
Construction Details
Machine-manufactured through die-striking and spinning, then electroplated. Features a soldered footed base assembly typical of Mid-Century industrial production.
Functional Features
Stable pedestal base designed for elevation; likely supported a large serving vessel or ornamental bowl.
Handle & Grip Details
Not visible in the provided image of the base, but likely features cast handles with high-relief fruit ornamentation consistent with the King Francis suite.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial craftsmanship. The stampings are crisp and centered, and the foot is well-balanced, showing the precision of Reed & Barton's manufacturing equipment.
Authentication Indicators
Authentic factory stamps and original foil label are perfectly consistent with mid-century Reed & Barton production. No evidence of reproduction.
Origin & Manufacturing
Made in the USA, specifically at the Reed & Barton workshop in Taunton, Massachusetts, a historic center for American silversmithing.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (approx. 1950s-1970). While the pattern design is Renaissance Revival, this specific production sticker reflects post-war American manufacturing.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1975 based on the style of the foil sticker and the 'King Francis' nomenclature used for their premium plated line during this era.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Golden Age' of American silver-plated service, where high-style European Renaissance designs were mass-produced for the growing American middle class.
Condition Notes
Fair to Poor. Significant heavy sulfur tarnish, spotting, and possible 'pitting' or plating loss. There is evidence of moisture damage and environmental exposure.
Value Estimate
$20 - $75 USD in current condition. Value is significantly impacted by the heavy tarnish and the fact that it is silver plate rather than solid sterling silver.
Care & Maintenance
Requires a gentle silver foam or cream. Avoid abrasive 'dips' as they can strip the thin silver layer. Store in anti-tarnish cloth after cleaning to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Pieces
Reed & Barton Francis I (Sterling version) – significantly more expensive and marked 'Sterling'. Winthrop or Heritage patterns – simpler designs from the same era.
Interesting Facts
The King Francis line was so successful that it often accompanied sterling silver Francis I flatware in wealthy households for larger decorative centerpieces.