Georg Jensen Blossom (Magnolia) Pattern Sterling Silver Hollowware Base #264
Hollowware (Base of a Compote, Tazza, or Bowl) · Georg Jensen Silversmithy, founded 1904 in Copenhagen, Denmark. Renowned as one of the most influential 20th-century silver houses, known for the 'Skønvirke' (Danish Art Nouveau) style.
Pattern: Blossom (known as Magnolia in Denmark), designed by Georg Jensen himself in 1905. Model #264. This is one of the firm's most iconic and longest-running floral patterns.
Type
Hollowware (Base of a Compote, Tazza, or Bowl)
Maker
Georg Jensen Silversmithy, founded 1904 in Copenhagen, Denmark. Renowned as one of the most influential 20th-century silver houses, known for the 'Skønvirke' (Danish Art Nouveau) style.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Features a solid silver construction with a characteristic hammered surface finish typical of the brand's hand-wrought heritage.
Dimensions
Estimated base diameter of 8-12 cm (3-5 inches). Weight would typically range between 150-300 grams depending on the specific model variation attached to this base.
Description
This is the underside of a Georg Jensen sterling silver vessel base, featuring the world-famous Blossom pattern. The piece embodies the Jensen philosophy that silver should resemble 'moonlight reflected on water' through its subtle hammered texture. The #264 line is a collector favorite for its organic elegance and substantial feel.
Key Features
Design number 264, standard post-1945 dotted oval maker's mark, and the distinctive hand-hammered texture that is the hallmark of authentic Georg Jensen hollowware.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Features a solid silver construction with a characteristic hammered surface finish typical of the brand's hand-wrought heritage.
Finish & Decoration
Hand-hammered finish with light oxidation (tarnish) currently visible. The 'Blossom' pattern is characterized by its organic, sculptural floral elements and soft, planished surface that reflects light in a shimmering, diffuse manner.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Circular 'Georg Jensen' dotted oval mark used primarily after 1945; 'Sterling Denmark' indicating silver purity and origin; and the design number '264' stamped clearly in the center of the base.
Construction Details
Hand-raised and hammered from a flat sheet of sterling silver. The central indentation and foot rim show evidence of manual planishing (distinctive small hammer marks) rather than industrial spinning.
Functional Features
Circular spreading foot providing stability for a raised vessel (likely a compote/tazza or sugar bowl). Features a stepped rim to catch tarnish and provide architectural lift.
Handle & Grip Details
Not visible in this view, but the #264 series typically features curved handles with delicate blossom/bud terminals and ivory or silver insulators if part of a pouring vessel.
Craftsmanship Details
Expertly hand-wrought with high-quality planishing. The thickness of the silver at the rim indicates a heavy gauge material, consistent with Jensen's premium hollowware standards.
Authentication Indicators
Hallmark consistency with genuine Jensen stamps from the mid-20th century; font of the '264' stamp matches official catalog records; planishing marks are irregular and consistent with hand-work.
Origin & Manufacturing
Copenhagen, Denmark. Produced in the Georg Jensen workshop, which maintains strict traditional hand-smithing standards even in modern production.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century production of a 1905 Art Nouveau design. While the design is late Art Nouveau/Skønvirke, the specific hallmark dates the manufacturing to the post-WWII era.
Age Estimate
Circa 1945-1970. The 'dotted oval' hallmark was introduced in 1945 and remains the standard, but the wear and patina suggest mid-century production.
Cultural Significance
Jensen's work moved silver away from the heavy, over-ornamented Victorian styles toward a functionalist yet organic modernism, defining Scandinavian design for the world.
Condition Notes
Very Good condition. There is significant even tarnish with a colorful 'rainbow' oxide layer appearing on the outer rim. No visible dents or deep scratches in this view. Needs professional polish to restore high-luster finish.
Value Estimate
$400 - $1,200 USD depending on the missing upper portion. As a complete #264 compote, the value can exceed $2,500 in the current market.
Care & Maintenance
Hand polish with high-quality silver cream (e.g., Wright's or Hagerty). Do not use silver dips, as they remove the intentional oxidation in the recessed areas that provides the design's depth.
Similar Pieces
Georg Jensen 'Grape' or 'Acorn' patterns; contemporary Swedish silver by Sigurd Persson which features similar clean lines but lacks the romantic floral elements.
Interesting Facts
The Blossom pattern was Georg Jensen's personal favorite; he designed the first piece (a teapot) for his own home. It took inspiration from the magnolia flowers in his garden.