Silver Pieces - The Strange and Peculiar: 2013-10-20

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, October 25, 2013

Wedding Rose by Watson

Of the many "Rose" patterns, here is Wedding Rose, a pattern introduced by Watson in 1900. It was designed by Joseph E. Straker, Jr. The terminal is tipped with rose blossoms and there is one at the end of the stem just at the top of the shoulder - simple but well balanced.

Toast Serving Fork (7 5/8 inches)
Solid Toast Serving Fork

Sugar Spoon (6 1/8 inches)

Cheese Scoop (6 inches)
Cheese Scoop, Solid Piece

Fork (7 1/8 inches)
Fork

Wednesday, October 23, 2013

Sheraton by Mount Vernon

Mount Vernon introduced Sheraton in 1912. This is a unique pattern of scrolls and lines. Note the clean medallion on the terminal for engraving.

Dessert Spoon (7 1/4 inches)

Oyster Fork (6 inches)

Monday, October 21, 2013

Countess by Frank Smith

Frank Smith introduced the pattern Countess in 1928. It is a stately and elegant pattern with just enough flourish to make it stand out from the Chantillys of the world, but still reserve enough not to be called excessive.

Flat Handle Butter Spreader (5 5/8 inches)

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Cocktail Fork (5 1/4 inches)

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Bon Bon Spoon (4 3/4 inches)

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Vegetable Serving Fork (8 1/4 inches)

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