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 Favorites in your collection?
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| Author | Topic: Favorites in your collection? |
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allentownboy Posts: 67 |
posted 03-13-2009 01:25 PM
  
[26-1819] In reviewing some of the older entries here, I came across this post from 2006 (Favorite pieces - Part 1) showing some of the members favorite pieces in their collections. Since it has been awhile, I thought I would not only share my own favorite, but ask you to show what new items you may have now found to be your own favorites in your collections since 2006! A few pics of my own pride and joy: Ravinet produced this service from the late 1880's until 1931. They produced it exclusively in .950 silver until the early part of 10's, then began offering it in both .950 and plate until the service was discontinued. I currently have service for 18 with 13 pieces in each place setting, not including the 22 serving pieces! What are some of your favorites right now? IP: Logged |
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bascall Posts: 1629 |
posted 03-13-2009 01:47 PM
Alright then let's see the massed set! Just kidding unless you are already planning on getting it out for something else. IP: Logged |
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allentownboy Posts: 67 |
posted 03-13-2009 01:53 PM
Easter is coming up, so I may just do that...my only concern is whether or not my camera can "wide angle" enough to get it all in the shot!!! IP: Logged |
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Kimo Posts: 1627 |
posted 03-13-2009 04:44 PM
That is a very elegant set. I really like the back design so you can set your table in the old classic 'upside down' style. [This message has been edited by Kimo (edited 03-13-2009).] IP: Logged |
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silverhunter Posts: 704 |
posted 03-13-2009 06:16 PM
I have only a few pieces myself from Norway made by M.Olsen I think made in 1912, also decorated at both sides, the more decoration is to find the more I like it in combination with the period which may be chosen for stylistic design of course. I also like the set you showed Allentownboy it surprised me (to be honest) how many parts are used by one person. It must be a wonderful decorated table at your side and good to have. IP: Logged |
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silverhunter Posts: 704 |
posted 03-13-2009 06:34 PM
I have only one question about the way the french silversmith put his name on the bled(I hope I use the right word?)How did they marked the name, because I recognize it like Theodor Olsens flatware is also done like this, and many other silversmiths of course. Is this marking used in a special period or companies still doing this. I send a photo of the two serving spoons and tart-server made by M.Olsen and the one in the middle is only with front and back decoration. It's totally different and personal taste of course and I miss the rest of the flatware at this side. IP: Logged |
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nautilusjv Posts: 253 |
posted 03-13-2009 07:19 PM
As a fairly new silver collector with a modest collection, I have 2 items right now which make me very happy. The first is an Edwardian spooner by George Betjemann and Sons hallmarked 1907. The second piece is a teaspoon in the Celestial pattern by Wood & Hughes. I just love the quirkiness of this pattern with it's funny little puppet-like figures. It is the only piece I have in Celestial, but I would love to acquire others as it is a multi-motif pattern. Great to see everyone's favorites. Kelly IP: Logged |
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allentownboy Posts: 67 |
posted 03-13-2009 07:54 PM
Kimo - thanks for the compliment. I really love this service and I actually use it often - the pattern is identical on both sides, but they added just a bit more work to the bowls and tines on the back to "show off" when set in the European manner for dinner! Silverhunter - Also thanks! I am not certain how they did the etching on the blade with their name. Perhaps it is an acid mark of some sort? These pieces are also stamped with their "official" hallmark and minerve on the business end of the utensils. My camera stinks and I cannot seem to capture the marks well enough for them to be recognized. I love the Olsen tart server you have as well! Nautilusjv - I really like that Wood & Hughes teaspoon. I have never seen that pattern before! I would really be interested in seeing other examples if anyone has any others... I can't wait to see some of the other members favorite items! IP: Logged |
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Paul Lemieux Posts: 1792 |
posted 03-13-2009 08:11 PM
I have been favoring more stylized/abstract designs over strict naturalism or figurals lately. This is a current favorite, a Whiting cake slice with a stylized shell or sea plant motif handle. From the late 1880s, but foreshadows Art Nouveau. IP: Logged |
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allentownboy Posts: 67 |
posted 03-13-2009 08:21 PM
Wow Paul, that is an amazing piece. In the second pic, if you didn't realize that there was a slice attached to it, you would think it was the beginning of a hand coming out of a stylized dress sleeve. IP: Logged |
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Paul Lemieux Posts: 1792 |
posted 03-13-2009 08:48 PM
Thanks, it is one of my favorites. The handle is the same on both sides. I can't quite decide 100% what the handle depicts. It looks different to me on different days. The top of the blade where it joins the handle resembles undulating waves. This server was probably designed by Charles Osborne. IP: Logged |
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jersey Posts: 1203 |
posted 03-13-2009 09:25 PM
Hi Paul! Did I miss it or is there a makers mark on your piece? Allentownboy that is just a great set you have! Thank you for showing us! Enjoy! Jersey IP: Logged |
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Paul Lemieux Posts: 1792 |
posted 03-13-2009 10:03 PM
My server is marked with the Whiting beast logo, the retailer (TB Starr) and sterling. The blade is acid-etched with scrolls and flowers (I could have done without the flowers) and engraved "B". IP: Logged |
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chase33 Posts: 362 |
posted 03-13-2009 10:07 PM
Love this topic! My favorite piece is my newest acquisition - a fruit bowl designed by George Wilkinson for Gorham and made in 1871. That's all I know about it but if anyone has more info to share, I would appreciate it. My other favorite pieces are a salad serving set in Chantilly with the Delft enameling. Robert IP: Logged |
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Paul Lemieux Posts: 1792 |
posted 03-13-2009 10:33 PM
Nice pieces, Robert. Thanks for sharing. The compote is a classic example of Gorham's neoclassical work (based on caryatids in classical architecture). I have never been in love with Chantilly, but I find the enamel pieces beautiful. I have had the Delft-type pieces as well as some others featuring polychrome enamel depictions of sailboats. IP: Logged |
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jersey Posts: 1203 |
posted 03-13-2009 11:05 PM
Paul Thanks. I am tired! Sorry I missed the attribution! Allentownboy, those pieces are formidable! Jersey IP: Logged |
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bascall Posts: 1629 |
posted 03-14-2009 01:10 AM
Here is a fork by Holmes and Edwards that has been a sterling favorite of mine. It's nothing special; I just like it. It stays mainly in the china cabinet. It's a good size, so it's time it gets put to use. IP: Logged |
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dragonflywink Posts: 993 |
posted 03-14-2009 12:34 PM
bascall - one of the first pieces of silver I bought as a teenager was a teaspoon in that pattern, engraved "Ella 1895" (my paternal G'ma's name, dates a couple of years before her birth though). The 1894 Patent number is D23263. Haven't bought much lately, but have added to my souvenir spoons occasionally - here are four of my Florida spoons: Full figural alligator (w/detailed back) by Paye & Baker, Alvin grinning 'gator from right down the road (1892 Patent D21296), Alvin 'gator with orange leaf bowl, and a perky little 'gator by Dominick & Haff for Greenleaf & Crosby (1892 Patent D21560). I'm very fond of this Egyptian souvenir with a tiny mummy inside the hinged sarcophogus. These are generally only marked "800", though occasionally the German crescent & crown is also present, they will sometimes have enameled scenes in the bowl. A large number of my Scandinavian spoons feature Vikings or longships, but many are just great designs dating anywhere from the late 19th century to the mid-20th. This pony jam spoon is by Norwegian manufacturer Brodrene Lohne. ~Cheryl IP: Logged |
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allentownboy Posts: 67 |
posted 03-14-2009 04:56 PM
Jersey, thanks so much for the compliment! I love my flatware, but to be honest, I didn't buy it as a large set. I have been adding to it and building it for the past 9 years! To show just how addictive collecting silver can be: I started out thinking I would put together a service for 6 with serving pieces...then it became service for 8....then 12....then 18!!! I really need to stop at some point, but have been thinking 24 might be a good place to wrap it up!!!!! chase33, that one stunning compote - what are the measurements on it? Thanks for sharing it too! bascall, that Holmes & Edwards fork is a beautiful pattern....I wonder what the name of the pattern is. A great place to start a collection and go crazy like I have with my own service ;-) dragonflywink, I am blown away by the egyptian spoon. I am actually shocked that the "mummy" hasn't somehow been lost over the years, as children are often fascinated by such pieces and things can "disappear" when little hands get ahold of them. Really exquisite... IP: Logged |
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ellabee Posts: 306 |
posted 03-14-2009 08:47 PM
Enjoyable thread; thanks to all showing items (don't stop now!), and thanks to allentownboy for starting it. Two weeks ago I had no idea about chinoiserie (Bailey & Co. sterling mark) in mid-19th century American silver, and now I'm seeing it everywhere! The W&H 'Celestial' pattern appears to be another instance. And multi-motif, to boot. It's hard to tell from the only other image of 'Celestial' (How irritating!) I've found on the forums, but I'm assuming all the versions of the pattern are Chinese scenes of one kind or another. IP: Logged |
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nautilusjv Posts: 253 |
posted 03-14-2009 09:49 PM
I'm not sure if Celestial would be described as an example of chinoiserie or perhaps the emerging aesthetic style. The pattern was introduced in 1870 at the same time as the various Japanese "bird" patterns(Gorham, Whiting, Wood & Hughes) were also developed. If one looks on replacements.com, there are 3 more examples of the various handle motifs of Celestial: a demitasse spoon, a 7" fork, and a 6 1/8" youth tea fork. Kelly IP: Logged |
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silverhunter Posts: 704 |
posted 03-15-2009 05:21 AM
In my reaction to Chase33 it's a wonderful piece, I'm surprised by the way it is constructed(like Paul wrote about). If you see the construction of the bowl at the head and two hands its about 4cm2 which is connected and carry the fruit bowl even when it is filled up. The total is resting on the small connection by the feets of a goddess.(?)It is a large table centerpiece which get a lot of attention standing at the table. I also enjoy the other reactions and it is good to see how many beautiful silver is collected and give so much enjoyment. It's a good idea by seeing these kind of silver items,the feeling grows and I hope to see more. For instance like the fruit bowl I will research for to find more of this beautiful patterns made by Wilkenson.So the reactions give also a stimulate to learn more. If you look at the differences of styles and nice patterns you often can see nature is used: animals,plants formed in that beautiful material of silver. Please send more! IP: Logged |
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silverhunter Posts: 704 |
posted 03-15-2009 05:38 AM
I'm sorry the reason to react at the fruit bowl is that I will explain that in Holland in the 17th century pottery dishes were made and the style was called "majolica". At one of my stoneware pieces which I collect also is painted a fruit bowl and the rim are sitting two birds.(Symbolic birds for the wedding couple). After researching I found out that this pottery dishes were given at wedding. The background information is also that the dishes were given for the wedding couple to wish them luck,fortune,healthiness for the future. I wonder if this pattern of Wilkenson was given as gift at a wedding. There also were, or still be given silver flatware etc. in Norway to wedding couples by family. IP: Logged |
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chase33 Posts: 362 |
posted 03-15-2009 10:17 AM
Hi The fruit bowl measures about 12" from the top of the birds to the botom and about 14.5" from bird to bird. It is engraved on the base "To Sam and Rene from your Brothers & Sisters". Funny I have never received a goft like this from my brother lol. Robert IP: Logged |
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ellabee Posts: 306 |
posted 03-15-2009 11:04 AM
You're right, Kelly, it was introduced after the wave of chinoiserie had passed, and has something in common with 'Bird' and other "japanesque" designs. But the motif of a vignette with human figure, building, and tree hearkens back more to the mid-century "Chinese" designs than to the japanesque focus on plants and animals. I've found another pair of motifs, on a master butter knife and a serving spoon. No two are alike, it seems. I wonder if a complete set exists anywhere... IP: Logged |
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dragonflywink Posts: 993 |
posted 03-15-2009 02:11 PM
allentownboy - The spoons are often found missing their mummies (decreases the value considerably), there were also similar Moses-in-the-cradle spoons with a separate infant, and Nuremburg iron-maiden spoons with two hinged doors. ~Cheryl IP: Logged |
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nautilusjv Posts: 253 |
posted 03-15-2009 04:52 PM
Hi Ellabee, Thanks for your reply. I think you are correct that in terms of subject Celestial does recall the chinoiserie of mid-century. I wonder if there are any mid-century patterns that are so literal in nature. I, also, saw the serving pieces you mentioned as well. Quite beautiful. Cheryl- Love the mummy spoon! What period is the spoon? Is it part of the 19th century interest in Egypt with the Suez Canal or the King Tut craze of the I think the 1920's? Kelly [This message has been edited by nautilusjv (edited 03-15-2009).] IP: Logged |
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dragonflywink Posts: 993 |
posted 03-16-2009 08:05 AM
Kelly - the mummy spoon, as with the alligators, would date to the height of the souvenir spoon craze, late 19th-early 20th century. ~Cheryl IP: Logged |
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nautilusjv Posts: 253 |
posted 03-16-2009 11:59 AM
Thanks for the information Cheryl. I did not know there was a craze! It does make sense with the rise of tourism as an activity in the 19th century and the desire for souvenirs. Kelly IP: Logged |
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dragonflywink Posts: 993 |
posted 03-16-2009 01:34 PM
Though they existed earlier, the fad in this country became huge with the success of the Daniel Low Salem Witch spoons in 1891, furthered by the popularity of the spoons created for the Colombian Exposition. The Jewelers' Circular published an 1891 booklet with over 200 designs, and the James catalogue of the same year estimated over 2200 designs available at that point. Magazines of the day wrote articles concerning the craze, most encouraging and informative, some derisive, a comment in the 1892 Stenographer starts, "The modern souvenir spoon, which has become a burden and almost a nuisance....." I like the interesting take on it in this gentleman's poem from an 1893 Outing magazine: ~Cheryl
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silverhunter Posts: 704 |
posted 03-16-2009 02:24 PM
Cheryl, if you are fishing for compliments you can get one, but I only have a lot of homework to do missing, the sub-title thanks a lot ;-)but I will do my best to read your chosen poem decorated with good attributes. My compliments. IP: Logged |
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Paul Lemieux Posts: 1792 |
posted 03-16-2009 04:14 PM
I love seeing everybody's favorite pieces. One of my favorites that is not in my collection is my great-great-great..... grandmother's large silver tankard, London about 1750. I will inherit it from my mother someday. It is just plain and engraved "Ma" in large script lettering on the front. It is all dented and the handle has been resoldered on at least once or twice. I don't collect this sort of thing, don't really have a passion for plain 18C siler, the reason I like it is the "Ma" inscription and the numerous signs of heavy use. I guess with all those kids, Ma needed to throw back a quart of stout every now and then. IP: Logged |
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asheland Posts: 935 |
posted 10-09-2009 01:48 AM
 One of my favorites, William Waldo Dodge bowl for the Biltmore Forest Country Club. IP: Logged |
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FWG Posts: 845 |
posted 10-10-2009 01:39 PM
Going back a ways in this thread, concerning nautilusjv's "spooner" by Betjemann: I'm pretty sure that's actually a pipe-rack. I haven't seen many in silver, so I'd say that's a fine example. IP: Logged |
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nautilusjv Posts: 253 |
posted 10-10-2009 03:43 PM
Thanks FWG for your thoughts about the Betjemann piece. I think your idea of a pipe rack makes sense. I use it to display spoons and it works wonderfully for that as well. Kelly IP: Logged |
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Postnikov Posts: 133 |
posted 11-18-2009 09:31 AM
Hi - here are some Russian enamel and lacquered spoons from famous makers. Regards IP: Logged |
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agphile Posts: 798 |
posted 11-18-2009 11:54 AM
Beauties! IP: Logged |
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Kimo Posts: 1627 |
posted 11-18-2009 02:17 PM
Those are all wonderful - thank you for sharing these photos! My favorite is the spoon in the third photo. I wish I could find one that nicely designed and made. Could you please tell me who is the maker and possibly show the markings and a photo of the other side of it? IP: Logged |
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Postnikov Posts: 133 |
posted 11-18-2009 05:09 PM
Hi Kimo - thanks for your interest. Here is a better photo of the champlevé enamel/silver surface - the other side is plain gilded. The mark, Moscow 1886, Assayer: A. Romanov The maker: Ivan Petrowitsch Khlebnikov, one of the more important firms of silversmiths in Russia, active in Moscow from 1871 on. Exhibited at the World Exhibition in Vienna in 1873. Made silver and enamel objects of very high quality in all techniques, often cloisonné, champlevé and Plique-à-jour side by side in the same piece. Jeweler of the Court. Regards IP: Logged |
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Kimo Posts: 1627 |
posted 11-18-2009 05:53 PM
Thank you! It is exceptional. I can see why he was made a jeweler to the court. IP: Logged |
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agleopar Posts: 850 |
posted 11-18-2009 08:21 PM
These are great! Enamel work is one of the most difficult of disciplines in all of metal work. Thanks for sharing. IP: Logged |
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