Silver Pieces - The Strange and Peculiar: 2014-08-17

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 22, 2014

Virginiana by Gorham

The pattern Virginiana was introduced by Gorham in 1905 during the Edwardian era. It is a lovely and ornate pattern of blossoms, leaves, and vines. The serving pieces are particularly beautiful with detailed floral designs including cut outs to make effect even more outstanding.

Hollow Handle Knife (9 1/2 inches)

Ice Cream Fork ( 5 1/2 inches)

Fish Serving Set

Long Handle Chocolate Muddler ( 8 5/8 inches)

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

Virginia Carvel by Towle

Towle introduced Virginia Carvel in 1919. Harold E. Nock designed the pattern for Towle. Nock was also know for designing Towle's Lady Constance, Lady Mary, Rambler Rose, and Candle Light. Virginia Carvel is a fairly simple pattern in more of a colonial style.

Salad Fork (6 1/4 inches)

Individual Salad Fork

Cream Soup Spoon (6 3/8 inches)

Round Bowl Soup Spoon (Cream Soup)

Flat Handle Butter Spreader (6 inches)

Tomato Server (7 5/8 inches)
Tomato Server, Solid Piece

Monday, August 18, 2014

Contessina by Towle

Towle introduced its Contessina pattern in 1965 and it was designed by John Prip. The pattern is reminiscent of the Stieff repousse patterns but not quite as elegant and in a more modern flare. The design does not cover the entire stem. Still for the 1960's it is a lovely pattern.

Pierced Table Serving Spoon ( 8 5/8 inches)
Pierced Tablespoon (Serving Spoon)

Lemon Fork (5 5/8 inches)

Fish Knife (8 3/4 inches)
Individual Fish Knife With Stainless Blade

Bon Bon Spoon (5 1/2 inches)

Bon Bon Spoon Solid