Silver Pieces - The Strange and Peculiar: 2014-09-14

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 19, 2014

Kensington by Gorham

Gorham's Kensington pattern dates back to 1893. It is an elegant balanced pattern that has aged well. The terminal has a feather motif on the tip.

Preserve Spoon (7 7/8 inches)

Fish Fork (6 3/8 inches)

Master Butter Knife (7 1/2 inches)

Large Jelly Knife (8 inches)

Wednesday, September 17, 2014

Tapestry by Reed and Barton

Reed and Barton introduced Tapestry in 1964. As I have commented often, there are few patterns in the second half on the 20th century that appeal to me. That said, I find this one simple but very elegant. It was designed by John Prip who also designed Contessina for Reed and Barton in 1965, which is another pattern I also admire for a newer design.

Tapestry has the simple lines of a flat ended terminal that leads to a plain thin stem. The terminal is heavily embossed like a deep piece of thick woven tapestry. The design tapers off as if the threads end at the top of the stem and then there is nothing else. It is simplicity at its best.

Cocktail Fork (5 5/8 inches)

Solid Jelly Server (6 1/4 inches)

Hollow Knife (9 inches)

Iced Tea Spoon (7 1/2 inches)

Monday, September 15, 2014

Medici Old by Gorham

Medici Old introduced by Gorham in 1880 is an incredibly ornate Multi Motif pattern. In the middle of the terminal of each piece is a different character. The design carries half way down the stem and is met with a strong pattern of straight lines that continues to the shoulder.

Fork (7 5/8 inches)

Ice Cream Spoon (5 7/8 inches)

Gravy Ladle (6 3/4 inches)

French Hollow Knife (8 7/8 inches)