Mid-Century Flatware Serving Spoon / Caddy Spoon
Decorative Art / Flatware • American or European utilitarian flatware manufacturer (e.g., Oneida, International Silver, or Rogers); pattern appears to be mass-produced.
Style & Movement
Mid-Century Modern / Art Deco influence with organic floral motifs.
Medium & Technique
Silver-plated base metal (likely nickel silver or steel) with decorative machine-stamped relief work and plating.
Creation Period
Circa 1940s–1960s (Mid-Century Modern period)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 5 to 6 inches in length; vertical format.
Subject Description
A utilitarian server with an asymmetrical, shovel-like bowl and a flat handle featuring a central floral rose relief framed by horizontal ribbing and linear borders.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Poor to Fair; significant surface oxidation and tarnish.
Estimated Market Value
$5.00 – $15.00 USD
Auction Estimate
$5.00 – $10.00 USD (in an 'as-is' mixed flatware lot)
Provenance History
Unknown; likely part of a private domestic household service set. No visible hallmarks or maker's marks on the front; usually stamped on the reverse of the handle.
Art Historical Significance
Represents the democratization of luxury in post-war domestic design, where floral motifs and streamlined forms were combined for mass consumption in the growing middle-class market.
Notable Features
Distinctive asymmetrical pointed bowl, common in jam spoons or specialty caddy servers; stylized rose motif integrated into a geometric handle design.
Condition Issues
Heavy tarnish, dark oxidation (sulfidation), surface scratching, and potential pitting of the silver plate; possible loss of plating on high points.
Conservation Recommendations
Gentle cleaning with a non-abrasive silver polish and soft cloth; storage in a low-humidity environment with anti-tarnish strips.