Silver Pieces - The Strange and Peculiar: 2010-08-15

The Story Behind this Blog

Being from the South, Silver is a very big part of my life. It doesn't have anything to do with wealth. Although those with more money - old money, tend to have more of it. New money tend not to spend their money on Silver. They do not have the appreciation for the warmth of the metal, the beauty of the patina, the story it tells of the generations past who have used it. A true southern girl comes of age when she chooses her silver pattern, long before she chooses her mate. If she is smart, she chooses that of her mother, grandmother, or favorite great aunt who in their benevolence will pass their silver on to her. It is the pieces in those sets, the pieces on our tables, along with the pieces we find in the corners of the displays in antique stores that prompted me to start this blog. They are beautiful, they are odd, but what are they, and what in the hell do you do with them?

Friday, August 20, 2010

Lap Over Edge by Tiffany (Mixed Metals)

This pattern by Tiffany is offered in different forms. This particular design is "mixed metals". Lap Over Edge is one of Tiffany's most detailed and complex patterns. The motiffs are three dimensional and of natural designs, representing flora and fauna. This is one of their Japanese patterns. The details and enhancements are true art. These pieces are now valued by collectors with some individual pieces costing as much as $7k.

The pattern was designed by Charles Grosjean and introduced in 1880. It became inactive in 1904.

Teaspoon (with gold ivy leaves with berries) (6 inches)

Salad Serving Fork (with gold turtle)

Coffee Spoon (crab) (4 3/4 inches)

Coffee Spoon (with vine and grapes) (4 3/4 inches)

Mint Julep Spoon (or Muddler) (with grasshopper) (6 inches)

Wednesday, August 18, 2010

Bug by Durgin

This pattern was introduced by Durgin in 1885. A truly unique pattern with a motif of different bugs on the handle, including bees, beetles, and lady bugs. A whimsical idea, however many diners may have not found the snake wrapped around the stem of each piece appetizing.

Soup spoon - (5 3/4 inches)

Solid Berry Serving Scoop

Salad Fork (6 5/8 inches)

Monday, August 16, 2010

A Rose by any Other Name (Part 2)

And, there are yet more sterling patterns named Rose. It is interesting to me the differences - from the very elaborate (Bridal Rose) to the simple (Castle Rose). Short of the name, and possibly a floral motif, they sometimes have little in common, with the exception of being made of sterling silver and designed as an utensil for dining.

Castle Rose by Royal Crest (no date) (Designed by Grosvenor N. Allen & Lloyd E. Ressegger)