Wednesday, April 06, 2011

Now that everyone has seen the Steuben flatware, marked by the letter “H”, Charles Sweigart shares information on his take. Ed. Note–The purpose of the Gazette is to share information and educate. Hopefully the letter “H” dialogue has played a part of that purpose. With fewer dealers, fewer shows and less opportunity to learn from the old fashioned mentor-mentee method, we would hope that the Gazette is playing a role. So, if you know of anyone who might benefit from this exchange and would like to put them on the mailing list, just send their name and e-mail address along.

David,

Rainwater’s book shows a plain “H” for Himmels in New Orleans, out of business in the late 1800’s so not an option.

Fred Hirsch used H in a square, not your plain H, along with 2 adjoining marks.

Hirsch & Oppenheimer used an H in a circle, again not your plain H.

The shape of the handles imitates 18th century pistol grip flatware. Flatware with semiprecious stone handles was made in the 18th and 19th century and Carder obviously drew inspiration from them.

The shape of the metal attachments is very similar to several other types of flatware made in the 20’s & 30’s in silver and chrome plate materials. The lack of a sterling mark also confirms that. At present little information exists on minor silver plate makers and their marks. The maker of your sets metalwork remains unknown.

www.cardersteubenclub.org

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