The Russell Collection Silver-Plated Sherry Goblets Pair
Hollowware (Stemware/Goblets) · The Russell Collection; a mid-to-late 20th-century giftware brand specializing in silver-plated tableware and boxed gift sets, often associated with UK or Commonwealth retailers.
Pattern: Plain Bell-Bowl Sherry/Port Pattern; contemporary production, currently discontinued.
Type
Hollowware (Stemware/Goblets)
Maker
The Russell Collection; a mid-to-late 20th-century giftware brand specializing in silver-plated tableware and boxed gift sets, often associated with UK or Commonwealth retailers.
Material
Silver Plate on base metal (likely EPNS - Electroplated Nickel Silver or copper). The base metal is revealed by the yellowish/brass-colored tarnish visible on the bulbous portion of the bowls.
Dimensions
Estimated height: 4–5 inches (10–12 cm). Weight: Approximately 100–150g per goblet. These are small-scale goblets designed for fortified wines like sherry or port.
Description
A pair of silver-plated sherry goblets presented in their original green mock-velvet case. These pieces feature a curvaceous, bell-shaped bowl and a tapered stem that flares into a circular foot. The minimalist aesthetic emphasizes the silhouette over ornamental detail, making them versatile for both formal and casual settings. Originally marketed as high-end gifts for weddings or anniversaries.
Key Features
Branded presentation box, 'The Russell Collection' logo, tulip-shaped bowls, and weighted bases.
Material & Composition
Silver Plate on base metal (likely EPNS - Electroplated Nickel Silver or copper). The base metal is revealed by the yellowish/brass-colored tarnish visible on the bulbous portion of the bowls.
Finish & Decoration
Polished mirror finish; minimalist design with no engraving, chasing, or repoussé. The style is a 20th-century interpretation of classic Georgian stemware.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The set is branded via the silk lid liner as 'The Russell Collection.' There may be small 'EPNS' or 'Made in England/China' stamps on the underside of the weighted bases, though they are not visible in the photo.
Construction Details
Machine-spun bowls joined to cast stems and bases. The construction shows modern industrial seam-joining at the junction of the bowl and the stem.
Functional Features
Weighted bases for stability; flared rims for sipping; tulip-shaped bowls to concentrate the aroma of fortified spirits.
Handle & Grip Details
Slender baluster-style stems with a flared trumpet base; designed for a two-finger grip to prevent warming the chilled liquid in the bowl.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard commercial plating; machine-finished with evidence of bulk manufacturing in the uniform thickness of the metal and the stamped assembly.
Authentication Indicators
The presence of yellow oxidation is a primary indicator of silver plate rather than sterling silver (which tarnishes black). The branding on the box identifies it as a commercial reproduction set.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely United Kingdom or Hong Kong for the UK market. The casing and branding suggest a mass-market retail giftware origins typical of department store 'Silver Salons'.
Era & Period
Late 20th Century (Modern) with Traditional influence; likely manufactured between 1970 and 1990.
Age Estimate
Circa 1975–1985; based on the typeface of the logo and the style of the green velvet-lined presentation box.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the mid-20th-century etiquette of serving specifically sized glassware for different courses, particularly the tradition of after-dinner port or sherry.
Condition Notes
Good to Fair. There is significant tarnish and 'plate wear' (loss of silver layer) visible on the rounded parts of the bowls, showing a yellow/golden hue underneath. The silk lining of the box is stained.
Value Estimate
$15.00 – $30.00 USD for the pair. Value is primarily decorative/functional as the silver content is negligible.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild silver foam (like Wright's) rather than a harsh dip to preserve the remaining thin silver layer. Avoid abrasive cloths which will further expose the base metal.
Similar Pieces
Cavalier Antiko Silver Plate, Leonard Silver Plate goblets, or Viners of Sheffield gift sets. Unlike sterling examples by Gorham or Tiffany, these are value-focussed plated items.
Interesting Facts
Sets like these were staples of the UK 'catalogue shop' and department store wedding registries in the late 20th century, representing affordable luxury for the middle-class home.