Reed & Barton Silver-Plated Holloware Nut Bowl or Sugar Basin, Model 795
Holloware / Decorative Bowl (likely a sugar basin or nut bowl from a tea set) · N/A - Item is silver-toned. The dark grey/black surface is silver sulfide (tarnish) on a silver-plated surface.
Purity: 0% / None. Despite the prompt's request for gold analysis, this item bears the hallmarks and physical properties of silver-plated base metal. There is no gold content present.
Type
Holloware / Decorative Bowl (likely a sugar basin or nut bowl from a tea set)
Purity
0% / None. Despite the prompt's request for gold analysis, this item bears the hallmarks and physical properties of silver-plated base metal. There is no gold content present.
Gold Type
N/A - Item is silver-toned. The dark grey/black surface is silver sulfide (tarnish) on a silver-plated surface.
Weight
350-500 grams estimated based on size and holloware construction.
Description
An elegant American silver-plated vessel featuring a globular, lobed body supported by four ornate scrolling feet. The item exhibits deep atmospheric tarnish, which obscures the original bright silver luster but confirms the presence of silver on the surface. Typical of the 'Holiday' or 'Heritage' style lines by Reed & Barton, these were staples of formal American dining sets.
Key Features
Four-footed base, lobed body design, and the distinct Reed & Barton lamp hallmark. The model number 795 is the primary identifier for the specific production mold.
Color & Finish
Grey-black heavy tarnish over a high-polish silver plate. The finish shows Significant patina consistent with silver oxidation.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'REED & BARTON' in an arc, with the pattern number '795' below. It also features a small shield mark containing a lamp (used by Reed & Barton for various silver-plate lines).
Dimensions Estimate
Estimated 4-5 inches in diameter; approximately 3-4 inches in height.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The item is solid metal holloware.
Clasp & Closure
N/A - Open top vessel with four aesthetic cast feet.
Chain & Links
N/A - Four cast scrolling 'claw' or acanthus leaf style feet soldered to the base.
Craftsmanship Details
Spun metal body with cast feet attached via lead-free solder. The stamping is precise, indicating industrial factory production rather than hand-smithing.
Authentication Indicators
The 'Reed & Barton' stamp is a verified trademark. The lack of a 'Sterling' or '925' mark confirms this is a silver-plated base metal item, not solid silver or gold.
Origin & Maker
Taunton, Massachusetts, USA; Manufactured by Reed & Barton, a prominent American silversmith manufacturer.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (likely 1940s-1960s). The styling is a hybrid of neo-classical and mid-century traditionalism.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950. The stamp style and model number 795 correspond to their mid-century production of silver-plated copper or nickel silver.
Cultural Significance
Represents the mid-century American tradition of formal entertaining and the accessibility of 'luxury-look' dining items through high-quality silver plating.
Condition Notes
Very Good structural condition; Poor surface condition due to heavy oxidation/tarnish. No visible dents or 'brassing' (where the copper shows through the plating), suggesting the plating is still largely intact under the tarnish.
Value Estimate
$15 - $35 USD. As a silver-plated item rather than sterling silver or gold, the value is decorative/collectible rather than based on precious metal weight.
Care & Maintenance
Requires a non-abrasive silver cream or foam (like Wright's or Hagerty) to remove the heavy tarnish. Do not use 'dip' cleaners as they may damage the specific alloy. Store in a tarnish-resistant cloth bag.
Similar Items
International Silver Co. plated bowls, Gorham silver-plated holloware, or Wallace Silversmiths Baroque line items.
Interesting Facts
Reed & Barton was chosen to design and produce the gold, silver, and bronze medals for the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta.