Mid-Century Modern Hexagonal Sterling Silver Tray or Charger
Hollowware (Tray/Platter/Charger) · Attributed to mid-century modern silversmiths or high-end manufacturers such as International Silver or Reed & Barton, featuring clean geometric lines characteristic of modernistic design lineages.
Pattern: Geometric Modernist line, popularized during the post-WWII design boom, non-specific production status.
Type
Hollowware (Tray/Platter/Charger)
Maker
Attributed to mid-century modern silversmiths or high-end manufacturers such as International Silver or Reed & Barton, featuring clean geometric lines characteristic of modernistic design lineages.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 fine silver content).
Dimensions
Estimated diameter approximately 12 to 14 inches (30-35 cm), typical for a small serving tray, cocktail tray, or decorative charger.
Description
This striking mid-century silver tray showcases a bold marriage of circular and hexagonal geometries. Featuring a wide, perfectly circular outer rim that frames a sharply stepped hexagonal inner well, the piece exemplifies the architectural restraint and clean lines prized by mid-century modern designers. The subtle play between the flat planes and crisp angles creates a sophisticated, sculptural object equally suited for functional bar service or display as a decorative centerpiece.
Key Features
Striking juxtaposition of a circular perimeter with a sharp, stepped central hexagon; clean unadorned surfaces emphasizing form over decoration.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 fine silver content).
Finish & Decoration
Satin or smooth brushed finish with a mirror-polished outer rim, featuring stepped geometric layers transitioning from a circular outer edge to a bold central hexagon. Style is distinctly Mid-Century Modern or Art Deco revival.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not clearly visible in the provided image, but typically marked with standard American 'Sterling' or equivalent purity stamps and maker's hallmarks on the reverse.
Construction Details
Likely heavy-gauge sheet metal spun for the outer circular rim and die-pressed or hand-formed for the crisp interior stepped hexagonal well, secured with invisible seams.
Functional Features
Flat central hexagonal well designed for stability when holding glassware, decanters, or serving pieces, surrounded by a raised perimeter rim to prevent sliding.
Handle & Grip Details
Handleless design, relying on the perimeter rim for a secure grip from underneath.
Craftsmanship Details
High quality metalworking demonstrating precise angles, clean joinery, and balanced weight distribution characteristic of mid-century hollowware production.
Authentication Indicators
Geometric precision, gauge thickness, and surface finishing are consistent with mid-20th-century sterling production. Verification of exact maker requires inspection of hallmarks on the reverse.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely United States or Europe, produced during the height of modern industrial design aesthetics.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (1945-1970), indicated by the bold geometric abstraction and clean, unembellished surfaces.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1965 based on the strong geometric motifs and prevailing architectural influences of the post-war period.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the post-war shift toward minimalism and functionalism in domestic life, where entertaining with cocktail culture demanded sleek, modern barware.
Condition Notes
Very Good vintage condition showing minor surface hairline scratches consistent with light use and age; no major dents or structural damage visible. Tarnish appears minimal.
Value Estimate
Estimated market value ranges between $300 to $800 USD depending on exact maker attribution, total weight in grams, and overall condition.
Care & Maintenance
Wash gently with warm water and mild soap, dry thoroughly with a soft cloth. Use a quality silver polish (such as Wright's) sparingly on unlacquered surfaces, avoiding abrasive pads to preserve the satin finish.
Similar Pieces
Geometric trays by Georg Jensen, Wiio Wirkkala designs, or modern silver pieces by Tiffany & Co. and Reed & Barton.
Interesting Facts
The transition from ornate Victorian and Edwardian floral motifs to stark geometric shapes in the mid-20th century reflected the era's fascination with industrial architecture and space-age design.