Godinger Silver Art Co. Grape Pattern Silver-Plated Trinket Box/Dish
Decorative Object / Hollowware small · Godinger Silver Art Co. (GSA), founded in 1973 by Arnold Godinger and William Lefkowitz in New York. Known for affordable giftware and silver-plated accessories.
Pattern: Grape/Vineyard collection; variety of botanical giftware; high production volume; currently common in secondary markets.
Type
Decorative Object / Hollowware small
Maker
Godinger Silver Art Co. (GSA), founded in 1973 by Arnold Godinger and William Lefkowitz in New York. Known for affordable giftware and silver-plated accessories.
Material
Silver plate over base metal (likely zinc alloy or brass). Visible tarnish and surface texture suggest electroplated nickel silver (EPNS).
Dimensions
Estimated 3-5 inches in length; approximately 150-250 grams depending on base metal density. Compact size for vanity usage.
Description
A decorative silver-plated piece featuring a lush grape and leaf motif. The item utilizes heavy oxidation to create contrast, giving it an 'antique' appearance. It reflects the post-1970s trend of affordable, ornate silver-plated giftware intended for home decor and bridal gifts.
Key Features
Bold grape cluster relief, beaded 'perlé' border, scalloped edges, and the distinctive Godinger copyright stamp.
Material & Composition
Silver plate over base metal (likely zinc alloy or brass). Visible tarnish and surface texture suggest electroplated nickel silver (EPNS).
Finish & Decoration
High-relief repoussé style grape and leaf motif with a beaded beaded border. Highly oxidized/antiqued finish to accentuate deep recessed areas.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'GODINGER ©' in block letters. The copyright symbol indicates a modern commercial production rather than antique silversmithing.
Construction Details
Mass-produced via die-casting or machine-pressing. The copyright mark and uniform beading indicate modern industrial manufacturing techniques.
Functional Features
Stationary decorative dish or lid for a trinket box; scalloped rim for aesthetic appeal; non-functional beyond containment or decoration.
Handle & Grip Details
Integrated lid/surface; no separate handles visible. Grip is provided by the raised relief of the grape leaves.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-cast with a consistent pattern. The relief is sharp but lacks the fine hand-chased details found in high-end sterling items.
Authentication Indicators
The 'GODINGER ©' mark is the primary indicator. Lack of 'Sterling' or '.925' marks confirms it is silver-plated giftware.
Origin & Manufacturing
Designed in the USA (New York) by Godinger; likely manufactured in China or Italy where much of their late 20th-century production occurred.
Era & Period
Modern Era (late 20th Century). Designed in a 'Neo-Victorian' or 'Revival' style to mimic 19th-century ornate silver.
Age Estimate
Circa 1980-2000. The font of the stamp and the copyright mark are consistent with this range.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of luxury aesthetics in late 20th-century American households, where 'silver' became an accessible decorative standard.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Heavy oxidation/tarnish present. Some surface scratching and possible plating wear-through on high points of the leaves.
Value Estimate
$10.00 – $25.00 USD. Value is driven by decorative utility rather than precious metal content or rarity.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with mild soapy water; avoid abrasive silver polishes as they may strip the thin plating. Use a soft cloth to maintain the intentional antiqued patina.
Similar Pieces
International Silver Co. 'Joan of Arc' patterns or Wallace 'Grand Baroque' plated giftware. Godinger is generally lighter and more commercially available.
Interesting Facts
Godinger is one of the most successful silver giftware companies in modern history, often found in major department stores like Macy's or Bloomingdale's.