Silver Pieces - The Strange and Peculiar: 2014-01-19

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, January 24, 2014

Majestic by Reed and Barton

Austin F. Jackson designed the Majestic pattern for Reed and Barton and it was introduced in 1894. Jackson also designed the La Marquise pattern for Reed and Barton. Majestic has stately lines with embellishments resembling leaves wrapped around the edge of the terminal and simple lines down the stem. Yet, the fret work within the pieces such as the Tomato Server, Fish Serving Knife, and Cake Serving Fork as seen here show a certain grace. There is beauty in the simplicity of the stem and elegance in the bowls and tines. Unlike the newer patterns, this is an example of quiet class.

Tomato Server
Tomato Server, Solid Piece

Large Fish Serving Knife

Large Solid Fish Serving Knife

Dinner Fork
Fork

Cake Serving Fork

Wednesday, January 22, 2014

Cromwell by Durgin

Durgin introduced Cromwell in 1893. For a pattern over 120 years old, it has aged well. The lovely design of scroll work around the terminal and edge of the stem make for a stately yet elegant pattern.

Pap Spoon (6 inches)

Individual Pap/fruit Spoon

Large Lettuce Serving Fork (9 1/8 inches)

Large Chocolate Spoon (5 1/2 inches)

Oyster Fork (5 5/8 inches)

Monday, January 20, 2014

George III by Frank Whiting

John W. Maillot designed George III for Frank Whiting in 1891. A stately pattern befitting it's name, the pattern has strong lines. The terminal in edged by furled leaves with a scalloped shell on the tip. A unique feature I like is the offset treatment at the top of the stem that catches one's eye at second glance. In lieu of the standard balanced symmetry of elements, Maillot offers a subtle surprise. The flair embellishment on the shoulder of the serving pieces and the spreader (shown here), as well as a continuation of the furled leaf treatment completes the design.

Large Sugar Sifter

Flat Handle Butter Spreader

Small Chipped Beef Fork

Olive Fork