small silver(plated?) Dutch? bowl

jooske · Post by **jooske** » Sun Aug 26, 2007 10:52 am

As part of an inheritance I was given this small copper bowl on a wooden stand. At first I thought it was completely copper but after polishing the rim and framework seemed silver. However I cannot find any "official" Dutch silver hallmarks apart from three marks: a J on its side, an N in a diamond and 2 stars in a rectangle.

The J could indicate it is from 1818 but as there are no other visible hallmarks apart from those mentioned I am not even sure it is silver and/or it is Dutch.

I have the feeling this object is no longer in its original shape, as the wooden stand is rather crude compared to the silverwork and the copper bowl seems to have been fixed into the silver framework later.

I am hoping someone might recognise this object and give an indication or suggestion of age, origin, function [please do not ask for values - refer Posting Requirements - Waylander (co admin)]. Thank you so much in advance!

jooske
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Doos · Post by **Doos** » Sun Aug 26, 2007 3:08 pm

Hi,

I think they are pseudomarks.
The 2 stars is a pseudo makers mark seen on this type, the N could be to mimic a dateletter or the 1795 taxmark of rotterdam.

The I (what you see as J) is probaly the 1906-1953 mark for old unassayed items.
Does it have horizontal striations in the background of the I?
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jooske · Post by **jooske** » Sun Aug 26, 2007 3:18 pm

@ Doos

Thank you for your answer! Yes there are very fine horizontal marks in the background of the I (if you look at it on its side).

So do you mean to say the silverware has been "recycled" as I thought? And could therefore be quite old? Is there any way to find out how old?

I am not sure what you mean with psuedo-marks, though.

jooske
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Doos · Post by **Doos** » Mon Aug 27, 2007 9:45 am

Hi,

"Pseudomarks" are marks struck by the silversmith to mimic official assay marks, in order to make the item look older.
The I is the only official one in my opinion.

The style of this "pijp komfoor" (can't think of the English name) is very eclectic and combines English (the boat shape) with French empire (the silver ball feet) and renaissance (the ornaments).
I think this is made around the late 1800's.
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