Viking Plate Electroplated Copper Hollowware
Hollowware (likely a Tray, Platter, or Chafing Dish base) · Lipman-Levinter Industries Ltd. (commonly known by the 'Viking Plate' brand name). They were a prominent Canadian manufacturer based in Toronto, Ontario, active during the mid-20th century.
Pattern: Viking Plate series; specific floral/scroll border patterns were common but require a full view of the top surface to identify.
Type
Hollowware (likely a Tray, Platter, or Chafing Dish base)
Maker
Lipman-Levinter Industries Ltd. (commonly known by the 'Viking Plate' brand name). They were a prominent Canadian manufacturer based in Toronto, Ontario, active during the mid-20th century.
Material
Silver Plate over Copper (E.P. Copper). This is a base of solid copper that has been electroplated with a thin layer of fine silver. It also features 'Lead Mounts,' meaning the decorative borders or feet are cast in lead-based alloy for detail and then plated.
Dimensions
Standard Viking Platters range from 12 to 20 inches. Copper-core plated items are notably heavy for their size compared to nickel-silver or steel-based plating.
Description
A classic piece of mid-century Canadian silver plate, this Viking Plate item represents the height of domestically produced hollowware. Utilizing a heavy copper base for durability and quality feel, the piece is finished with ornate cast mounts that emulate English Sheffield styles. It is a robust, utilitarian serving piece designed for formal dining and social gatherings.
Key Features
The 'Lead Mounts' stamp is a diagnostic feature of Canadian Viking Plate, indicating that the ornate edges were cast separately and applied. The use of a copper base rather than nickel-silver (EPNS) is also a key quality marker.
Material & Composition
Silver Plate over Copper (E.P. Copper). This is a base of solid copper that has been electroplated with a thin layer of fine silver. It also features 'Lead Mounts,' meaning the decorative borders or feet are cast in lead-based alloy for detail and then plated.
Finish & Decoration
Polished silver electroplate. These items typically feature Neoclassical or Rococo Revival decorations, including chased floral motifs, gadroon borders, or shell-and-scroll perimeter mounts.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'VIKING PLATE / MADE IN CANADA / E.P. COPPER / LEAD MOUNTS'. The 'E.P. COPPER' confirms it is electroplated, not solid sterling. The absence of a lion passant or '.925' confirms it is plated ware.
Construction Details
The main body is formed from a pressed copper sheet with cast lead alloy decorative 'mounts' (rims, handles, or feet) soldered to the copper base before the entire piece is electroplated.
Functional Features
The copper core offers excellent heat conductivity, making this brand popular for tea trays, coffee pots, and serving dishes that need to retain or distribute heat.
Handle & Grip Details
Usually cast lead-alloy handles with ornate scrollwork, attached via lead solder. These handles are sturdy but can be brittle if the piece is dropped.
Craftsmanship Details
Commercial grade manufacturing. While the stamping and forming are professionally executed, the use of lead mounts and machine-pressed bodies indicates mass production rather than artisan hand-wrought work.
Authentication Indicators
The marks are clear and consistent with known Lipman-Levinter stamps. The weight and the visibility of copper at the wear points authenticate it as silver plate rather than sterling silver.
Origin & Manufacturing
Made in Canada, specifically Toronto. Lipman-Levinter was one of the largest Canadian silver-plate manufacturers of the post-war era.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Canadian (c. 1940s-1960s). This reflects the era of mass-market luxury goods where electroplating allowed middle-class households to own silver-look serving sets.
Age Estimate
Circa 1945–1965 based on the style of the block-letter stamping and the commonality of the 'Viking' brand during this window.
Cultural Significance
A staple of Canadian middle-class hostessing during the 1950s. It represents the transition from imported British silver to domestically manufactured Canadian goods.
Condition Notes
The visible surface shows heavy 'bleeding' (where the silver has worn away to reveal the reddish copper underneath) and significant 'pitting' (small dark spots) on the lead mounts. Structure appears intact, but the plating is heavily compromised. Overall condition: Fair.
Value Estimate
Low market value ($10 - $40 USD). Because the copper is 'bleeding' through the silver, collectors usually view it as a utility item rather than a fine antique. Resilvered pieces may fetch more for display.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid machine washing. Use a mild silver foam/cream (like Wright's). Because the silver layer is thin and already showing copper, avoid 'silver dips' or abrasive cloths which will strip the remaining silver.
Similar Pieces
Birks Regency Plate (often EPNS), Marlboro Plate (another Canadian brand), and Sheridan Silver (USA). Viking Plate is generally heavier than Sheridan but more prone to 'bleeding' than Birks Regency.
Interesting Facts
Viking Plate was ubiquitous in Canadian bridal registries for decades. Despite its name, it has no actual connection to Viking history, but the name was chosen to evoke strength and traditional craftsmanship.