Know the Different Types of Antique Silverware Used for Dining

The growth of silverware for the dining table took place in the early 18th century. From soup tureens to sauceboats, there were different types of silverware items that had been used for dining in the 17th and 18th Century. Here we have discussed a few different types of antique silverware used for dining.

Antique Russian Silver Enamel Spoon

The gorgeous and awesome silver and enamel spoons are developed by Feodor Ruckert. These spoons were originally part of sets and had been broken up into their individual components over the years.

Russian Silver enamel spoons from Russian silver antique store in New York exhibit rounded style knops and the spoons were turned face side down when the table was set. This is because the detail work was on the back of the bowl so that guests would see the gorgeous workmanship when they sat down for dinner.

Tureens

Tureens are the extremely popular items to have on the dining table during the 18th Century. They were heavily ornamented and used as the centerpiece for the table. They come with a classic oval, rounded form, gadroon decorated borders and a grand domed cover supported by four cast volute scrolling feet. Some of these items even have an engraved coat of arms.

Sauceboats

Sauceboats were another dominant item at the dining table and were oval shaped with a single lip and one handle. They have round base followed through on to various items of silver from jugs to teapots.

Salvers

Salvers during the 18th century were circular, square or rectangular. Salvers were raised on a central foot or three or four supports. Some of these items have cut card work on the base and around the foot. This makes these pieces more desirable and attractive.

Talk to your Russian antique dealers in New York to find the best antique silverware that were used for dining in the 18th century.

How to Clean and Care for Russian Silver Antiques

Russian silver antiques in New York are the very precious and beautiful collectibles that can add a touch of elegance to any space. These beautiful collectibles also tarnish, scratch and stain easily since they are very soft and fragile. Many avid antique collectors find it difficult to clean their antiques due to the fear of damaging them.  

Many Russian antique dealers in New York stress on regular and gentle dusting rather than infrequent, over-zealous cleaning. 'Harring' with your breath and rubbing with a clean cloth is sufficient if the item is too tarnished. This action can remove dust and minor marks such as light fingerprints. For better results, you can also use a clean, cotton cloth or feather duster.

Invest in specialized cleaning cloths specifically designed for cleaning antiques and storage bags to protect your treasured item and reduce tarnishing.

Cleaning Antique Silver Flatware

Using silver flatware regularly shows less tarnish, and they develop ‘patina’ slowly. This patina is known only to enhance the beauty of the antique piece. If you are using antique flatware regularly, be sure to clean them right after the usage especially after contact with any acidic or corrosive foods.

Also, make sure that you don’t soak antique silver flatware overnight because extended immersion can damage the metal. Wash flatware using hot water and clean crevices with the use of an old toothbrush for better results. Also, avoid putting stainless steel and silver antiques in the same basket because the direct contact between these materials can cause severe damage to the silver antiques. Use a soft cotton cloth to dry the flatware and avoid spotting on the pieces.Now, put these tips to good use when cleaning your antique silver flatware bought from Russian silver antique store in New York to achieve the desired results.