Kleeblatt-Rose Pattern German Silverplated Flatware by Robbe & Berking
Flatware (likely a Spoon or Fork handle) · Robbe & Berking, Flensburg, Germany. Founded in 1874 by Nicolaus Christoph Robbe, they are world-renowned for high-quality silver and silver-plated hotel-grade flatware.
Pattern: 'Kleeblatt-Rose' (Clover-Rose). This is a traditional German floral pattern characterized by romantic rose and clover leaf motifs.
Type
Flatware (likely a Spoon or Fork handle)
Maker
Robbe & Berking, Flensburg, Germany. Founded in 1874 by Nicolaus Christoph Robbe, they are world-renowned for high-quality silver and silver-plated hotel-grade flatware.
Material
Silver Plate (EPNS). The '100' mark indicates the thickness of the silver plating—specifically, 100 grams of pure silver were used to plate 24 square decimeters (usually a standard set of 12 spoons and 12 forks).
Dimensions
Approximately 18-21cm depending on piece type; weighted for heavy hand-feel typical of European hotel-ware standards.
Description
This piece represents the classic German 'Silberwaren' tradition, featuring the 'Kleeblatt-Rose' pattern by Robbe & Berking. Unlike thinner mass-market plating, the '100' stamp signifies a heavy-gauge silver deposit intended for generations of use. The script engraving within the hallmark displays the precise manufacturing standards of the Flensburg workshop.
Key Features
The '100' stamp and 'Kleeblatt' logo are diagnostic marks for Robbe & Berking silverplate. The recessed rectangular stamp is a signature of their earlier 20th-century manufacturing style.
Material & Composition
Silver Plate (EPNS). The '100' mark indicates the thickness of the silver plating—specifically, 100 grams of pure silver were used to plate 24 square decimeters (usually a standard set of 12 spoons and 12 forks).
Finish & Decoration
Satin-to-mirror polish typical of mid-20th century German flatware. The name suggests floral decoration on the front (not visible in the hallmark photo), while the back shows a classic tapered handle.
Hallmarks & Stamps
A vertical rectangular recessed stamp containing a four-petaled clover (Kleeblatt) manufacturer logo, the script pattern name 'Kleeblatt-Rose', and the numeral '100' denoting plating thickness.
Construction Details
Industrial die-struck construction. These pieces are machine-stamped from a base metal (likely Alpaca or Nickel Silver) and then electroplated with fine silver for durability and shine.
Functional Features
Standard flatware handle designed for ergonomic grip and durability in high-use environments.
Handle & Grip Details
Tapered flat handle with a rounded end. The back is smooth to allow for the maker's stamp; the front would typically bear the relief decoration.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial production with hand-finished edges and heavy electroplating. The clarity of the incised mark suggests a clean strike from a well-maintained factory die.
Authentication Indicators
Authentic Robbe & Berking hallmark. The clover logo matches official company registries, and the '100' font is consistent with German industry standards for the period.
Origin & Manufacturing
Flensburg, Germany. Robbe & Berking is one of the few high-end manufacturers still operating in this region, known for meticulous plating standards.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern / Post-War German (1950s-1970s). The typography of the script in the stamp is indicative of mid-20th-century German branding.
Age Estimate
Likely manufactured between 1955 and 1975 based on the style of the incised hallmark and the popularity of the pattern during that era.
Cultural Significance
Represents the German 'Wirtschaftswunder' (Economic Miracle) era, where high-quality domestic goods and formal dining culture returned to German households.
Condition Notes
Good condition with visible 'use-marks' and light surface scratches consistent with age. No evidence of 'bleeding' (base metal showing through silver), though light tarnish is present in the crevices of the lettering.
Value Estimate
Individual pieces typically retail between $15 and $35 USD at antique dealers or replacements services. Sets of 12 can fetch $300-$600 depending on the number of pieces.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a high-quality silver cream like Wright's or Hagerty. Because it is silverplate, avoid overly abrasive cleaners which can eventually wear through the '100' layer to the base metal.
Similar Pieces
Hildesheimer Rose flatware (often 800 silver or 90 silverplate) and Wilkens 'August der Starke' patterns. Robbe & Berking is generally considered higher quality than mass-market competitors.
Interesting Facts
Robbe & Berking originally started as a small gold and silversmithing shop and grew to provide silver for the Kremlin in Moscow and many luxury yachts worldwide.