Silver Pieces - The Strange and Peculiar: 2015-02-15

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, February 20, 2015

Whiting Silver Company Markings

Frank Whiting was eventually aquired by Gorham so it no longer exists. However, there are still many patterns out there designed and produced by the company prior to that time. Below are two markings you will find on the back of pieces of sterling flatware by Frank Whiting and Whiting Silver.

Frank Whiting

Whiting Silver

Wednesday, February 18, 2015

Baronial by Frank Smith

Frank Smith introduced Baronial in 1920. It was designed by Aurthur J. Stone. It is an elegant pattern with an offset design. The serving pieces are particularly attractive.

Preserve Spoon (7 3/4 inches)

Salad Serving Fork (8 1/4 inches)

Lettuce Serving Fork (8 3/4 inches)

Monday, February 16, 2015

Lion by Frank Smith

Introduced in 1905, Lion by Frank Smith is a very distinct pattern with the image of a lion's face on the terminal. It is truly unique and easy to identify.

Fork (7 3/8 inches)

Fish Knife (8 1/8 inches)