ANTIQUES: Lord of the Rings

  

Rows of gleaming silver napkin rings, each holding a colorful damask napkin, add richness and a glow to any festive holiday table setting. The use of napkin rings began in this country in the mid 1800s. During the Victorian era, it was customary when dining with family to use the same cloth napkin for several meals before laundering; individual rings, engraved with initials or first names, made it easy for members to identify his or her napkin. Popular gifts for weddings or birthdays, many are engraved with the date of a special occasion.

 

Collectible antique napkin rings in sterling or nickel silver are found in an array of styles, from heavily embellished Victorian designs, all swirls and flourishes, to elegant Art Deco or Arts and Crafts styles, streamlined and simple. Prices start at about $60 and range up to $150 or more.

 

Of these silver napkin rings, “Ed” (left, $95) is an Art Nouveau design; “Flora” (top, $98) is dated Oct 21, 1883; “Daphne” ($110) is an Art Deco pattern from the 1930s; the English Arts and Crafts style is represented by “Norman” ($125); “Emily” ($120) is made of coin silver pre-1860; and “Otto” (right, $125) is a pierced design from the 1920s. [NOV/DEC 2009]

THE GOODS

Past and Future Fine Antiques
63 Church St.
Lenox, Mass.