Silver Pieces - The Strange and Peculiar: 2012-09-02

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, September 7, 2012

Tuileries by Gorham

Tuileries was designed by William C. Codman and introduced by Gorham in 1906. An elegant pattern with an old European midevil like style.

Large Casserole Spoon (9 inches)

Iced Tea Spoon ( inches)

Small Cold Meat Serving Fork (7 1/4 inches)

Preserve Spoon (7 1/2 inches)

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

Botticelli by Frank Whiting

Botticelli was introduced by Frank Whiting in 1949. Although the lines are "fussy", one can tell that the styles by the 1940's had changed and the designs were becoming more reserved and less ornate. Compared to Frank Whiting's own Lily that was introduced as late as 1935, the style change is remarkable.

Pierced Casserole Spoon (8 7/8 inches)

Cocktail Seafood Fork (5 5/8 inches)

Salad Serving Fork (9 inches)

Gravy Ladle (6 1/2 inches)

Salad serving Fork ( inches)

Monday, September 3, 2012

Old English by Towle

The pattern Old English was introduced by Towle in 1892 and as designed by George P. Tilton. Like another pattern Tilton designed for Towle, Princess, this is an excellent example of a beautifully well balanced design that is elegant without being intimidating.

Pie Fork (6 inches)

Teaspoon (5 3/4 inches)

Bon Bon Spoon (4 3/8 inches)

Large Lettuce Serving Spoon (9 inches)