Unbranded Sterling Silver or Silver-Plated Demitasse Cup Holders with Porcelain Inserts
Hollowware · Unknown manufacturer, likely European or American maker producing tea and coffee accessories.
Pattern: Classic plain cylindrical design with stepped rim and foot ring, commonly produced across multiple mid-20th-century manufacturers.
Type
Hollowware
Maker
Unknown manufacturer, likely European or American maker producing tea and coffee accessories.
Material
Silver-plated metal base or sterling silver frames with removable white ceramic/porcelain liners.
Dimensions
Estimated height of approximately 5 cm (2 inches) and diameter of 5 cm, typical for standard demitasse or espresso cup holders.
Description
A pair of demitasse cup holders featuring minimalist cylindrical metal frames with sleek loop handles and stepped bases, fitted with removable white porcelain cup inserts. Designed for serving espresso or Turkish coffee.
Key Features
Dual-component design combining metal sleeves with removable ceramic liners, clean classical lines, and sturdy loop handles.
Material & Composition
Silver-plated metal base or sterling silver frames with removable white ceramic/porcelain liners.
Finish & Decoration
Polished metallic finish with minimal decoration, featuring stepped or reeded borders at the base and rim.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not clearly visible in the image; likely stamped on the underside of the base with maker's marks or silverplate indicators such as EPNS.
Construction Details
Formed metal sleeve with soldered handle and applied rim/base moldings, designed to securely hold removable porcelain inserts.
Functional Features
Removable porcelain liners for easy cleaning and thermal insulation, paired with comfortable loop handles for hot beverages.
Handle & Grip Details
Loop-style handles securely attached to the side of the metal frame, offering an ergonomic grip for small cups.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard commercial manufacturing with clean soldered joints, smooth edge finishing, and well-fitted removable porcelain components.
Authentication Indicators
Construction style, proportional scaling, and the integration of ceramic inserts are typical of mid-century coffee service accessories.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely European or American origin, common in traditional hospitality and domestic tableware manufacturing centers.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century, typically associated with 1930s to 1960s dining and coffee accessories.
Age Estimate
Mid-20th century, circa 1940-1960 based on style and construction.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the formalization of after-dinner coffee rituals and the mid-century appreciation for mixed-material tableware.
Condition Notes
Very Good vintage condition. Metal shows minor surface scratches and light tarnish consistent with age; porcelain liners appear clean and intact without visible cracks.
Value Estimate
Estimated market value ranges from $30 to $80 for a pair, depending on whether the metal tests as sterling silver or silver-plated base metal.
Care & Maintenance
Wash porcelain inserts separately with warm soapy water. Polish the metal frames gently with a soft cloth and specialized silver or metal polish, avoiding harsh abrasives.
Similar Pieces
Similar metal and porcelain demitasse holders produced by German, English, and American makers such as WMF or various Sheffield silversmiths.
Interesting Facts
Such holders, often called 'boris' cups or porcelain liner holders, protect fingers from hot beverages while allowing the ceramic cup to be easily removed for washing.