Treasure Hunting

Figural Napkin Rings

One of the best things about antiques is not just its intrinsic beauty, but also knowing where it came from and what
it represents. We wanted to dedicate this page to showcase the beauty and history that each of our antiques or collectibles carry with them. Today we are featuring Figural napkin rings.

American Napkin Ring History

The napkin ring (in French: serviette) which graces many a holiday table was originally intended to identify a specific household member’s napkin so that it could be reused between laundry days. Many materials were used to make napkin rings, including early renderings in bone, wood, pewter, bronze, porcelain, glass and later Bakelite and plastics. However, the most enduring and much valued medium has been silver and silverplate. Many early American artists and silversmiths played with the form and added details creating small sculptures or figures to the ring, creating enchanting images. These little prizes have become a collector’s dream. Some of these treasured old rings can be found in individual cases throughout our store.

Reed & Barton, (pictured above) founded in 1824, is a prominent American silversmith manufacturer originally based in Tauton, Massachusetts. This old firm has proudly produced many beautiful products and become well known for its wonderful sterling silver and silverplate. In honor of Reed & Barton’s distinguished history and in recognition of the enchanting American figural napkin ring tradition, a number of fine quality silverplate napkin rings were reintroduced by this company as their 1824 Collection. The 1824 Collection commemorates the 175th Anniversary of Reed & Barton, and each item in the Collection is inspired by an antique product design from the Company's extensive archives. We are pleased to offer a number of these to you for your table and have the following rings (offered at $95 each): Cat; Rabbit; Peacock; Bear; Elephant and Frog.

We also have a wonderful variety of beautiful silverplate pieces throughout the store and select sterling pieces located in our showroom cases. Come and select something special to dazzle your guests!