Silver Pieces - The Strange and Peculiar: 2012-08-12

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 17, 2012

Stratford by International

Stratford by Internationl was designed by John T. Clulee and introduced in 1902, making it 110 years old. The Terminal is a more traditional design with a rose at the top and motifs of leaves coming down the sides. However, the bowls and tines of the serving pieces are quite ornate and elegant with free flowing designs.

International also makes a stainless pattern called "Stratford" but the designs are not common.

Small Sugar Sifter (5 1/4 inches)

Solid Cold Meat Serving Fork (6 5/8 inches)

Lettuce Serving Fork (8 3/4 inches)

Fork (Luncheon size) (6 3/4 inches)

Wednesday, August 15, 2012

Princess by Towle

Princess by Towle was introduced in 1892 by George P. Tilton, making it 120 years old. It is patterns as ornate and lovely as this one that one make me adore sterling silver flatware. How can one not fall in love with the lines and craftsmanship of such a piece of art.

Tomato Server (7 1/2 inches)

Fish Serving Set

Gravy Ladle (6 1/2 inches)

Small Croquette Server (8 1/4 inches)

Monday, August 13, 2012

New Queens by Gorham

New Queens is another pattern designed by William C. Codman. Gorham introduced it in 1899. A lovely pattern with a scallop shell on the terminal and classic decorations.

Salad Fork (5 7/8 inches)

Fruit Orange Spoon (5 3/4 inches)

Strawberry Fork (4 1/2 inches)

Large Fish Serving Fork (8 3/4 inches)