Presentation Piece – Meriden Silverplate

Form & Design

• Style & Ornamentation: A Victorian repoussé-style silver-plated domed inkwell featuring high-relief chased floral and foliate motifs around the skirt and scrolling acanthus leaves framing the lid medallion.
• Hinged Lid: The top opens on a five-knuckle hinge to reveal its glass insert.

Deciphering the Inscription

• The Name: In late-19th-century Spencerian script, the presentation reads:
  • Presented
  • to
  • H. Mahler (or possibly H. Mohler / H. Miller)
  • by his
  • A.W.P.C.
• What “A.W.P.C.” Likely Stands For:
  • American Writing Paper Company: Given that desk and ink accessories were traditional corporate retirement and service gifts in the stationery and paper trade, the Holyoke, Massachusetts–based trust (formed in 1899) is a leading candidate.
  • Social / Fraternal / Trade Club: Alternatively, it may represent a local turn-of-the-century club or employee committee (e.g., [City/Name] Whist & Pinochle Club, American Wholesale Paper Co., or a regional athletic/press collective).

Meriden Silver Plate Co. & Dating

• Manufacturer: Founded in Meriden, Connecticut in 1869, the company became renowned for high-grade electroplated hollowware and desk accessories before merging as an original charter member of the International Silver Company in 1898.
• The Base Stamp: Features the company’s trademark circular mark containing a demi-lion rampant issuing from a heraldic torse, grasping an urn/flagon.
• Pattern / Model No. 2532: This is the factory catalog shape number, which allowed retailers and clients to order the specific blank and its matching desk suite pieces directly from Meriden trade catalogs.
• Circa / Date: ca. 1885–1898 (late Victorian period, prior to the rebranding under International Silver).