Vase, 1875-1900

Made by Aurora Silver Plate Manufacturing Co., Aurora, IL
Silver plate

With the discovery of electroplating, a method that allowed the rapid bonding of a thin layer of silver over a cheaper base metal, silver-plated items became much less expensive. This led to a profusion of different patterns and types of silver items available for the average home. The Aurora Silver Plate Company, in operation from 1869 until 1919, was well known for its many ornate pieces. Birds, cherubs, flowers, and flowing ribbons as well as figures like the female heads found on this vase were cast and applied before silver-plating.

Illinois State Museum Society purchase (750081)

Metal

© Illinois State Museum 31-Dec-96