Mid-Century Modern Sterling Silver Beaker or Julep Cup
Hollowware (Tumbler/Beaker/Mint Julep Cup) · Unknown manufacturer; form indicates American or Scandinavian origin such as International Silver, Gorham, or Hans Jensen. Mid-range to high-quality industrial silversmithing.
Pattern: Unpatterned 'Plain' or 'Modernist' tapered form; typical of 1950s-1970s barware staples.
Type
Hollowware (Tumbler/Beaker/Mint Julep Cup)
Maker
Unknown manufacturer; form indicates American or Scandinavian origin such as International Silver, Gorham, or Hans Jensen. Mid-range to high-quality industrial silversmithing.
Material
Likely Sterling Silver (.925) or high-grade Silver Plate (EPNS). The heavy oxidation pattern suggests solid silver or a thick silver deposit over brass/white metal.
Dimensions
Estimated height: 9.5-11 cm (3.75-4.25 inches). Weight: approximately 120-160 grams (4-5 troy oz) if sterling.
Description
A classic example of Mid-Century Modern barware, this silver beaker features a minimalist tapered silhouette that transitions from a narrow base to a wider circular rim. Its beauty lies in its unadorned surface, meant to showcase the luster of the metal and the craftsmanship of the spinning process. This form is most commonly associated with the Mint Julep tradition or modernist water tumblers.
Key Features
Tapered conical shape, rolled rim finish, flat recessed base, and spinning-line interior texture.
Material & Composition
Likely Sterling Silver (.925) or high-grade Silver Plate (EPNS). The heavy oxidation pattern suggests solid silver or a thick silver deposit over brass/white metal.
Finish & Decoration
Polished mirror finish with unadorned surface; minimalist aesthetic. Significant tarnish/patina is visible, showing golden-brown to black sulfide development.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not visible in image; likely located on the underside of the base. Expected marks: 'Sterling', a maker's symbol, and possibly a model number such as 'V102'.
Construction Details
Spun silver construction; evident by the uniform thickness and concentric horizontal faint lines visible in the interior. Rolled or 'beaded' top rim for structural rigidity.
Functional Features
Tapered conical body for stacking and ease of grip; weighted or reinforced flat base for stability in barware use.
Handle & Grip Details
Handleless tumbler design; the grip is provided by the natural taper of the body.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial quality spinning; indicates a machine-assisted process rather than hand-wrought, typical for 20th-century commercial silver.
Authentication Indicators
The color of the tarnish is consistent with .925 silver. The interior spinning marks are consistent with period manufacturing techniques for hollowware tumblers.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely United States (Providence, RI or Meriden, CT hubs) or Denmark. Mass-produced using industrial spinning lathes.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (1945-1970). Design indicators include the total lack of ornamentation and emphasis on geometric form.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1965 based on form and the specific tonality of the surface oxidation.
Cultural Significance
Represents the shift from ornate Victorian dining rituals to the streamlined, functional entertaining style of the post-war middle class.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Significant surface tarnish (oxidation) covering the exterior. Minor rim distortions ('out of round') and light surface scratching. No major dents visible.
Value Estimate
If Sterling: $150 - $250 based on silver weight. If Silver Plate: $15 - $35.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water first, then use a high-quality cream like Wright's Silver Cream to remove oxidation. Avoid 'dip' cleaners which can strip the silver too aggressively.
Similar Pieces
Mark J. Scearce Julep Cups (usually with beaded/thread borders) or Tiffany & Co. plain tumblers (usually heavier gauge).
Interesting Facts
The Mint Julep cup form was originally popularized in the American South, but the minimalist version like this one was a staple of 'Mad Men' era corporate gift culture.