Silver Pieces - The Strange and Peculiar: 2016-05-15

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, May 20, 2016

Althea by International

In 1910 International introduced their Althea pattern. The blooms in the design resemble the Althea flower, therefore my assumption is the link to the name.

Sugar Tongs (4 5/8 inches)

Lettuce Serving Fork (8 3/8 inches)

Teaspoon (5 3/4 inches)

Butter Spreader (6 3/4 inches)

Wednesday, May 18, 2016

Georgian Maid by International

International introduced their Georgian Maid pattern in 1923.

Table Serving Spoon (8 1/4 inches)

Salad Serving Set

Tomato Server (7 1/2 inches)

Monday, May 16, 2016

Portland by Gorham

Gorham's 1904 Portland pattern may seem a bit ordinary at first blush. However, when given a closer look one sees the detailing of the vine gently making its way up the stem and around the terminal. Then the three blossoms at the top of the terminal, and another at the base of the stem complete the design for a lot of detail with little fuss.

Cream Ladle (4 7/8 inches)

Five O'clock Spoon (5 1/4 inches)