Swedish Mid-Century Modern Pewter Small Dish by Lindsholm
Decorative Object / Small Hollowware (Nut Dish or Coaster) · Lindsholm of Sweden. Lindsholm was a notable Swedish workshop specializing in high-quality decorative metalwork, particularly active during the mid-20th century.
Pattern: Minimalist Scandinavian Modern. The pattern is 'Plain' or 'Polished,' typical of the functionalist Swedish aesthetic that prioritized material purity over ornamentation.
Type
Decorative Object / Small Hollowware (Nut Dish or Coaster)
Maker
Lindsholm of Sweden. Lindsholm was a notable Swedish workshop specializing in high-quality decorative metalwork, particularly active during the mid-20th century.
Material
Tenn (Pewter). While containing no silver, 'Tenn' is the Swedish word for pewter (a tin-based alloy). It typically consists of 90-95% tin, with small amounts of antimony and copper.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter of 8-10 cm. Weight is relatively high for its size compared to silver, as pewter is denser. Estimated weight: 60-100 grams.
Description
This charming Swedish dish represents the peak of Scandinavian Mid-Century metalwork. Rather than relying on precious silver, the designer utilized 'Tenn' (Pewter) to achieve a warm, soft luster that is distinctively Swedish. The piece is defined by its clean lines and the prominent visibility of its authenticating marks, which serve as the primary decorative focal point on the reverse or base. It embodies the 'Beautiful Everyday Objects' philosophy of the Swedish Design Society.
Key Features
Prominent 'Three Crowns' Swedish control stamp; 'TENN' material mark; hand-incised 'Lindsholm' signature; evidence of traditional lathe-finishing.
Material & Composition
Tenn (Pewter). While containing no silver, 'Tenn' is the Swedish word for pewter (a tin-based alloy). It typically consists of 90-95% tin, with small amounts of antimony and copper.
Finish & Decoration
Polished satin finish with significant age-related surface scratching. The item features a minimalist design with a raised rim and an engraved/incised maker's signature 'Lindsholm' below the central stamps.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The 'Three Crowns' (Tre Kronor) Swedish national mark is visible above the word 'TENN' in a block stamp. Below this is the cursive incised signature 'Lindsholm'. The Three Crowns is the official Swedish control mark for metal purity.
Construction Details
Cast and lathe-turned. The circular grain visible in the image suggests the piece was finished on a lathe to smooth the surface and create the recessed center.
Functional Features
Wide, flat base for stability; low vertical or sloped rim. Ideal as a decorative trinket dish, wine bottle coaster, or individual nut dish.
Handle & Grip Details
None. The item is a simple open dish form.
Craftsmanship Details
Solid workshop quality. The stamps are well-struck, and the incised signature shows the hand of a confident artisan. The symmetry of the dish indicates professional lathe-turning expertise.
Authentication Indicators
The Swedish 'Tre Kronor' stamp is a high-authority indicator of origin. The specific font of the stamp and the fluid, hand-signed nature of the maker's name are consistent with authentic 20th-century Swedish pewter.
Origin & Manufacturing
Sweden. Manufactured in a specialized pewter workshop following the long-standing Swedish tradition of pewter-smithing which saw a massive revival between 1920 and 1950.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (c. 1940-1960). The simplified form and focus on the 'Tenn' material are hallmarks of Swedish modernism during this era.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950s. The style of the 'Lindsholm' incised signature and the block lettering for 'TENN' are consistent with post-WWII Swedish production.
Cultural Significance
Represents the Swedish 'Slöjd' (handicraft) tradition meeting industrial modernism. Such pieces were staple wedding or anniversary gifts in mid-century Swedish households.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. The surface shows heavy 'honest wear' with numerous scratches and scuffs consistent with soft pewter being used over decades. There is some minor oxidation (dark spots) but no signs of 'pewter rot' or structural cracking.
Value Estimate
$25 - $55 USD. While aesthetically pleasing, Swedish pewter of this size and maker is common, and the significant surface scratching keeps the value at a collector-entry level.
Care & Maintenance
Never use silver polish on pewter as it can be too abrasive. Clean with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. To restore luster, use a specific pewter polish or a paste of flour, salt, and vinegar. Avoid the dishwasher.
Similar Pieces
Svenskt Tenn (by Estrid Ericson), Just Andersen (Danish Disko metal), or Gab (Guldvaruaktiebolaget) pewter items. This piece is less ornate than Danish Art Deco but shares the same material focus.
Interesting Facts
In Sweden, pewter (Tenn) became so popular in the 1920s-30s that it was often referred to as 'fattigmanssilver' (poor man's silver), eventually becoming a prestigious medium for high-end designers like Estrid Ericson.