Modernist Sterling Silver Cordial or Liqueur Goblet
Hollowware - Drinking Vessel (Cordial/Liqueur Goblet) · Unidentified Mid-Century Manufacturer (possibly Web, Empire, or Towle)
Pattern: Undetermined Modernist/Minimalist Series, mid-20th century
Type
Hollowware - Drinking Vessel (Cordial/Liqueur Goblet)
Maker
Unidentified Mid-Century Manufacturer (possibly Web, Empire, or Towle)
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) or high-grade Silver Plate (likely EPNS); subject to hallmark verification on the underside of the base. No visible mixed materials.
Dimensions
Estimated height: 3.5 to 4 inches; bowl diameter: 1.5 inches. Approximate weight: 30-50 grams if solid, or heavier if the base is cement-filled/weighted.
Description
A streamlined Mid-Century Modern cordial goblet featuring a classic tulip-shaped bowl supported by a slender, straight-sided pillar stem. The aesthetic reflects the post-war shift toward minimalism, emphasizing the elegance of the silver material over applied decoration. This piece would have been part of a larger set used for formal after-dinner drinks.
Key Features
Seamless bowl transition, minimalist aesthetic, satin finish, and industrial scale indicates mid-market luxury production from the mid-20th century.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) or high-grade Silver Plate (likely EPNS); subject to hallmark verification on the underside of the base. No visible mixed materials.
Finish & Decoration
Satin-to-brushed finish with apparent surface oxidation and light scratching. The design is strictly minimalist Modernist with a plain, unadorned surface lacking engraving, chasing, or repoussé.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Marks likely located on the underside of the weighted or hollow base; expected stamps would include 'Sterling', a numerical purity mark (925), and a manufacturer's pictorial mark or name.
Construction Details
Machine-spun bowl and base with a die-struck or cast stem. The components are joined via silver solder at the junction of the bowl/stem and stem/base. Typical of 20th-century mass production.
Functional Features
Tapered 'tulip' bowl for concentrated aroma; slender stem to prevent hand heat from warming chilled liqueurs like schnapps or sherry.
Handle & Grip Details
Plain cylindrical stem providing a slim grip; integrated into the vessel structure via soldering. No secondary materials like ivory or wood.
Craftsmanship Details
Functional industrial craftsmanship; exhibits high symmetry and clean solder joints but lacks the unique character of hand-hammered artisan silver.
Authentication Indicators
Lack of visible hallmarks in the image requires base inspection. The uniform thickness suggests machine-spun construction rather than hand-raised, consistent with mid-priced silver of the era.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely United States or Scandinavia (Denmark/Sweden) based on the specific silhouette and finish style common to those regions in the mid-1900s.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (c. 1945-1970). Characterized by the rejection of Victorian ornamentation in favor of clean lines and functionalist scrap.
Age Estimate
Latter half of the 20th century (circa 1950-1975) based on the industrial spinning marks visible on the surface.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of silver luxury in the mid-20th century, where streamlined manufacturing allowed middle-class households to own 'fine' silver services in modern styles.
Condition Notes
Good to Fair condition. Significant surface tarnish (sulfide buildup) and visible micro-scratching. No significant dents or structural deformations visible from the primary angle. Grade: Good.
Value Estimate
$25 - $45 USD if silver plated; $60 - $120 USD if Sterling Silver (dependent on weight and maker prestige).
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm, soapy water to remove surface oils, followed by a non-abrasive silver cream (e.g., Wright's). Store in a tarnish-resistant chest or Pacific Silvercloth bag to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Pieces
Danish Modern cordials by Hans Jensen (often in silver plate) or various American sterling versions by Gorham or International Silver (which typically feature more flared bases).
Interesting Facts
In the 1950s, sets of these were common wedding gifts; they were often sold in velvet-lined boxes of 6 or 8 and used for serving high-proof spirits.