Mid-Century Modern Sterling Silver Pedestal Bowls / Tazzas
Hollowware (Compote / Tazza / Pedestal Dish) · Attributed to mid-20th-century American or Scandinavian silversmiths, possibly regional studio or commercial manufacturers such as International Silver Co. or Gorham adapting modernist aesthetics.
Pattern: Modernist Plain Pedestal Line, introduced mid-20th century, highly valued by collectors of clean-lined domestic silver.
Type
Hollowware (Compote / Tazza / Pedestal Dish)
Maker
Attributed to mid-20th-century American or Scandinavian silversmiths, possibly regional studio or commercial manufacturers such as International Silver Co. or Gorham adapting modernist aesthetics.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity), standard hollowware construction with reinforced or weighted bases common to pedestals of this scale.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter of approximately 10-12 cm (4-4.5 inches) and height of 7-9 cm (3-3.5 inches) per dish, consistent with individual nut bowls, condiment compotes, or small tazzas.
Description
A matched pair of diminutive sterling silver pedestal bowls or tazzas featuring minimalist, clean-lined circular basins supported by elegantly flared stems and stable circular feet. Their reflective mirror-polish surfaces capture light gracefully, making them quintessential examples of post-war domestic modernism. Ideal for refined table settings or minimalist interior displays.
Key Features
Unadorned surfaces, balanced proportion between shallow bowl and flared pedestal foot, bright mirror polish, and harmonious matching pair configuration.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity), standard hollowware construction with reinforced or weighted bases common to pedestals of this scale.
Finish & Decoration
Sleek mirror-polish finish with a minimalist, unadorned aesthetic emphasizing pure form and fluid curves over applied ornament.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Expected stamps include 'Sterling', maker logo, and model or pattern numbers located on the underside of the base, typical of mid-century American or European production.
Construction Details
Formed via spinning or stamping of sheet silver, with the bowl and flared pedestal base joined by hidden soldering; weighted or reinforced internal base for stability.
Functional Features
Elevated pedestal design intended for serving small morsels, nuts, mints, or candies, or for use as individual decorative display vessels.
Handle & Grip Details
No handles; handled via the smooth flared rim or the balanced pedestal stem.
Craftsmanship Details
Clean lathe-spun or stamped forms reflecting efficient modern manufacturing methods paired with careful hand-finishing and polishing to achieve a flawless mirror sheen.
Authentication Indicators
Sleek unornamented contours typical of post-war manufacturing, clean solder joints, and proportions appropriate for mid-century American or Scandinavian studio hollowware. Physical inspection of stamps recommended.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely United States or Northern Europe, following post-war modernist design movements emphasizing organic simplicity and industrial craftsmanship.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (1945-1970), characterized by streamlined geometries, functionalism, and rejection of historical revivalist ornament.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1965 based on the clean modernist aesthetic, form factor, and popularity of unadorned table silver during the post-WWII era.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the post-war American and European embrace of modern design in everyday domestic life, where luxury was expressed through clean lines and high-quality materials rather than elaborate ornamentation.
Condition Notes
Visually very good condition with minimal surface wear consistent with light use and gentle polishing; no major dents, deep scratches, or structural repairs observed from visual inspection.
Value Estimate
Estimated market value ranges between $150 to $350 for the pair, depending heavily on the exact maker's mark, weight, and overall condition.
Care & Maintenance
Hand wash gently with mild soap and warm water, dry immediately with a soft microfiber cloth, and polish infrequently with high-quality silver cream to preserve the finish.
Similar Pieces
Georg Jensen pedestal bowls, International Silver modernist compotes, and various Danish or American post-war sterling nut dishes.
Interesting Facts
The mid-20th century saw a dramatic shift away from heavily ornate Victorian and Edwardian silver towards stark, functionalist forms inspired by Scandinavian design principles.