The Elegance of Old Silverplate and Some Personalities by Edmund P. Hogan

Table of Contents Silverplating by electricity spawned a new industry in America in 1847. By the 1880s, over forty firms centered largely around Meriden, Connecticut, produced ornate objects of silverplate which have become highly prized, Today these are studied and collected as representatives of a fascinating period of American industrial history. The designs for this silverplate drew heavily on nature and many of the articles are ornamented with flowers, twigs, nuts, birds, bees, butterflies, squirrels, cows, goats, dogs, lizards, fish, young boys and girls, fairies and cherubs. In this book, the forms of American silverplate are identified, illustrated, and grouped together: ice pitchers, card receivers, tea sets, baskets, butter dishes, napkin rings, toilet stands, flatware, and specially commissioned pieces. Closely related pewter, glassware, and silver are discussed as they affected the silverplate industry. 305 black and white photos