Silver Pieces - The Strange and Peculiar: 2014-06-08

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, June 13, 2014

Gipsy by Shiebler

Shiebler's Gipsy pattern dates back to 1880. The design is one of leaves and vines that make a garland as they works their way up the stem and around a medallion on the terminal that is suitable for a monogram.

Teaspoon (5 7/8 inches)

George W Shiebler Gipsy (Sterling,1880) Teaspoon

George W Shiebler Gipsy (Sterling,1880) Teaspoon

Wednesday, June 11, 2014

Charlemagne by Towle

Towle introduced Charlemagne in 1963. The pattern is an attempt at an Edwardian or Victorian design with the heavy terminal, busy florals, and decorated shoulder. However, it shows its youth. The flowers are too modern, the edges too clean, and the overall pattern trying too hard. For a pattern of the 1960's I will say it is so much better than the thin designs with a waved line up the stem and a rose embellished in it.

Lemon Fork (5 1/2 inches)

Steak Knife (9 1/8 inches)
Individual Steak Knife Hollow Handle

Baby Spoon (4 3/8 inches)

Straight Handle Baby Spoon

Table Serving Spoon (8 1/2 inches)

Pierced Tablespoon (serving Spoon)

Monday, June 9, 2014

Lorraine by Alvin

Alvin introduced Lorraine in 1904. The pattern has a flourish motif at the top of the terminal that is repeated at the top of the stem and at the base of the stem.

Ramekin Fork (5 3/8 inches)
Large Ramekin Fork

Jelly Cake Server (8 7/8 inches)

Jelly/cake Server

Jam Spoon (7 1/8 inches)

Flat Handled Butter Spreader (6 1/8 inches)

Large Flat Handle Butter Spreader