Mappin & Webb Princes Plate Silver Plate Hollowware
Hollowware · Mappin & Webb, a prestigious British silversmith founded in 1775, known for high-quality silver and plate, and holder of Royal Warrants since the Victorian era.
Pattern: Princes Plate collection, a proprietary high-grade electroplate line introduced in the late 19th century.
Type
Hollowware
Maker
Mappin & Webb, a prestigious British silversmith founded in 1775, known for high-quality silver and plate, and holder of Royal Warrants since the Victorian era.
Material
Silver plate on base metal (Nickel Silver/EPNS). This specific line is 'Princes Plate,' which was marketed as more durable than standard electroplating.
Dimensions
Dimensions unknown without full object view; '92' likely refers to a specific catalog size or date variant rather than weight in grams.
Description
An authentic piece of Mappin & Webb silver plate from their renowned 'Princes Plate' line. This branding was specifically developed to offer the durability of sterling silver with the affordability of plate, often used in high-end hotels and steamships.
Key Features
The 'Triple Deposit' mark and the specific proprietary 'Princes Plate' branding are the primary identifiers of Mappin & Webb's luxury plated goods.
Material & Composition
Silver plate on base metal (Nickel Silver/EPNS). This specific line is 'Princes Plate,' which was marketed as more durable than standard electroplating.
Finish & Decoration
Polished silver finish; the visible image shows a plain, utilitarian interior or base surface with standard wear and light surface scratching.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped with 'TRIPLE DEPOSIT', 'MAPPIN & WEBB'S', 'PRINCES PLATE', 'LONDON & SHEFFIELD', the Mappin 'M' shield mark, and catalog/date code 'C1/92'.
Construction Details
Machine-stamped and electroplated. The 'Triple Deposit' label indicates a heavy layer of silver was applied during the manufacturing process.
Functional Features
Likely part of a serving set (teapot, creamer, or tray) intended for domestic dining use.
Handle & Grip Details
Not visible in provided image; however, Princes Plate items typically feature solid cast handles soldered to the main body.
Craftsmanship Details
Exhibits high industrial standards for the era; the deep, clear stamping of the marks suggests a piece from the company's peak production period.
Authentication Indicators
The presence of the official Mappin & Webb 'M' shield logo and the tiered font style typical of late 19th-century British commercial stamps.
Origin & Manufacturing
Manufactured in Sheffield or London, England by the Mappin & Webb workshops.
Era & Period
Late Victorian to Edwardian era (approx. 1890-1915) based on the specific 'Princes Plate' branding and stamp style.
Age Estimate
Circa 1890-1910; the 'C1/92' code suggests a production turnover in the late 19th century.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of luxury during the late 19th century, allowing middle-class households to own silverware that emulated the look and feel of solid sterling.
Condition Notes
Good condition with visible surface scratches consistent with age and regular cleaning; no silver breakthrough (pinking) is evident in this view.
Value Estimate
Individual pieces typically range from $20 - $80 depending on the form; full sets can command significantly more.
Care & Maintenance
Hand wash with mild soap; use a high-quality silver cream like Wright's. Avoid abrasive scrubbers which can wear through the 'Triple Deposit' silver layer.
Similar Pieces
Elkington & Co. 'Plateau' items or Walker & Hall 'A1' Grade plate are the primary competitors of similar quality.
Interesting Facts
Princes Plate was so highly regarded for its durability that it was often used in British Royal households and on the luxury liners of the era.