Mid-20th Century Silver-Plated Pedestal Creamer or Sugar Bowl
Hollowware (Creamer or Sugar Bowl) · Unknown / American Mass Manufacturer (Likely Sheridan, Leonard, or Poole Silver Co.). These often featured paper or foil labels on the base rather than permanent stamps.
Pattern: Classical Revival with Beaded Border
Type
Hollowware (Creamer or Sugar Bowl)
Maker
Unknown / American Mass Manufacturer (Likely Sheridan, Leonard, or Poole Silver Co.). These often featured paper or foil labels on the base rather than permanent stamps.
Material
Silver Plate (Electroplated Nickel Silver or Copper base) as indicated by the 'Tarnish Resistant' paper label and visible surface wear.
Dimensions
Approximately 3-4 inches in height and 3 inches in diameter. Estimated weight 150-200 grams.
Description
A classic example of mid-20th-century silver-plated hollowware designed for the suburban American home. This piece features a traditional urn-style body mounted on a circular pedestal foot, accented with a timeless beaded rim. It represents the era's focus on 'maintenance-free' luxury, evidenced by the tarnish-resistant coating.
Key Features
The 'Tarnish Resistant' paper label is the primary diagnostic feature, identifying it as commercial silver plate designed for decorative display without frequent polishing.
Material & Composition
Silver Plate (Electroplated Nickel Silver or Copper base) as indicated by the 'Tarnish Resistant' paper label and visible surface wear.
Finish & Decoration
Mirror-polished silver finish with a beaded (perl) border along the rim and pedestal base. The interior shows significant patination and lack of the 'Sterling' stamp.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No visible metallic hallmarks. The item features a blue and white paper label stating 'Tarnish Resistant', a common feature on Mid-Century American silver-plated giftware.
Construction Details
Machine-spun body with a soldered pedestal foot. The smooth interior curves indicate mass production via spinning on a lathe.
Functional Features
Wide-mouth vessel suited for serving cream or sugar cubes; features a raised pedestal to protect table surfaces.
Handle & Grip Details
Handle not fully visible in image, but the rim suggests a double-handled sugar or single-handled creamer configuration.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard commercial grade. The beaded border is likely applied as a separate wire or stamped into the rim. Solder joints are clean but machine-finished.
Authentication Indicators
Lack of 'Sterling' or '.925' marks; presence of paper adhesive labels; visual evidence of thin electroplating in the interior bowl.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States; likely produced in the New England area (Massachusetts or Connecticut) by a commercial silver company.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern / Post-War Era (1950s-1970s). The use of adhesive 'Tarnish Resistant' labels was peak during this commercial period.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1975 based on label typography and adhesive degradation.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the post-WWII democratization of the 'silver service,' where plated items allowed middle-class families to emulate formal Victorian dining customs at a lower cost.
Condition Notes
Good. The exterior shows light tarnish; the interior shows heavy spotting and discoloration commonly found in silver plate when moisture reacts with the base metal. Label is peeling.
Value Estimate
$5.00 - $15.00 USD. Value is decorative rather than intrinsic, as silver plate has negligible scrap metal value.
Care & Maintenance
Do not use silver dips or harsh abrasives, as they will strip the lacquer and the thin silver plating. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth only.
Similar Pieces
Gorham or Reed & Barton sterling versions of this pedestal form exist but would be marked 'Sterling' and weigh significantly more.
Interesting Facts
During the 1960s, companies like Sheridan and Leonard marketed 'Tarnish Resistant' silver that was coated with a thin lacquer, which eventually peels or yellows over decades.