Peruvian Colonial Style Sterling Silver Hexagonal Bowl with Chased Floral Center
Hollowware (Bowl, Trays, and Decorative Dishes) · Unmarked or Regional South American Silversmith, likely Peruvian or Mexican artisan workshop, producing traditional colonial-revival style export and domestic silver.
Pattern: Traditional Colonial Hexagonal Chased Pattern, inspired by 18th-century South American ecclesiastical and domestic silver designs.
Type
Hollowware (Bowl, Trays, and Decorative Dishes)
Maker
Unmarked or Regional South American Silversmith, likely Peruvian or Mexican artisan workshop, producing traditional colonial-revival style export and domestic silver.
Material
Likely .925 Sterling Silver or high-purity regional standard (.900 or .950 silver common in South American artisan silver), solid metal construction without base metal plating.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter of approximately 18 to 22 cm (7 to 8.5 inches) based on standard proportions, with a weight range typical of medium display bowls between 200 to 350 grams.
Description
An exquisite and striking circular-to-hexagonal silver bowl featuring a stepped rim and a deeply recessed center. The interior base showcases intricate, meticulous hand-chased floral and scrollwork radiating outward, surrounded by a geometric hexagonal well accented with delicate beadwork and star stamps. The satin-brushed finish enhances the traditional craftsmanship, making it a wonderful example of Latin American silver artistry.
Key Features
Distinctive hexagonal interior well set within a circular rim, detailed hand-chased central floral medallion, and beaded border accents.
Material & Composition
Likely .925 Sterling Silver or high-purity regional standard (.900 or .950 silver common in South American artisan silver), solid metal construction without base metal plating.
Finish & Decoration
Satin and matte finish with heavily hand-chased and engraved central medallion featuring stylized floral or scroll motifs. The sloping hexagonal well features beaded borders along the rim edges and small stamped star or floret accents at the corners.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not clearly visible in the provided top-down image, likely stamped on the underside with a purity mark such as '925', 'Ley 925', or a localized artisan stamp.
Construction Details
Likely hand-raised or spun from a heavy gauge silver sheet with hand-chased decorative work executed in the center medallion and applied or stamped border details.
Functional Features
Open shallow bowl or decorative dish suitable for serving small items, holding vanity articles, or as a decorative centerpiece.
Handle & Grip Details
Handleless design featuring a wide, smooth flat rim leading into a steeply angled hexagonal well.
Craftsmanship Details
Demonstrates skilled manual chasing and tool work, typical of dedicated Latin American silversmithing workshops where individual pieces receive significant hand-finishing.
Authentication Indicators
Irregularities in the hand-chased center and hand-applied details point toward traditional artisan manufacturing rather than mass-produced casting.
Origin & Manufacturing
Originating from South America, prominently Peru (Lima) or Mexico, regions renowned for rich silver smithing traditions dating back to the Spanish colonial era.
Era & Period
Mid to Late 20th Century Colonial Revival, drawing heavy inspiration from 17th and 18th-century Spanish Colonial silverwork traditions.
Age Estimate
Estimated circa 1950-1980, reflecting mid-century South American tourist and export silver production utilizing traditional hand-crafting techniques.
Cultural Significance
Represents the rich heritage of Andean and Latin American silversmithing, which has supplied exquisite decorative arts and liturgical objects to the global market for centuries.
Condition Notes
Appears to be in very good to excellent vintage condition with minor surface wear and a soft, even tarnish consistent with age and gentle handling. No visible structural damage, deep scratches, or repairs.
Value Estimate
Estimated market value ranges between $150 and $350 USD depending on exact silver weight, maker's marks on the reverse, and overall artisan quality.
Care & Maintenance
Clean periodically with a high-quality liquid silver polish or a soft polishing cloth specifically formulated for sterling silver. Avoid abrasive cleaners to preserve the fine hand-chased details.
Similar Pieces
Taxco Mexican silver decorative dishes, Peruvian colonial-style sweetmeat bowls, and contemporary artisan silver trays.
Interesting Facts
South American silversmithing hubs like Lima and Taxco preserved ancient pre-Columbian metalworking techniques blended seamlessly with Spanish colonial baroque aesthetics.