Mid-Century Modern Sterling Silver Stemmed Cordial or Liqueur Goblet
Hollowware (Stemware/Cordial Goblet) · Unknown American or Continental manufacturer. The form is characteristic of mid-20th-century companies such as Gorham, Wallace, or Sanborns (Mexico), who produced minimalist barware for the post-war market.
Pattern: Minimalist Plain Pattern; typical of 1940s-1960s functionalist design where form follows function without applied floral or scroll ornamentation.
Type
Hollowware (Stemware/Cordial Goblet)
Maker
Unknown American or Continental manufacturer. The form is characteristic of mid-20th-century companies such as Gorham, Wallace, or Sanborns (Mexico), who produced minimalist barware for the post-war market.
Material
Likely Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Based on the oxidation pattern and the thinness of the rim, it appears to be solid silver rather than plate, though a 'Weighted' base (silver shell over pitch/wax) is common for this form.
Dimensions
Estimated height: 3.5 to 4.5 inches. Expected weight: 30-50 grams if solid, or 80-100 grams if the base is 'Loaded/Weighted'. Size indicates a 1oz to 1.5oz capacity for spirits.
Description
A classic example of mid-20th-century silver barware, this cordial goblet features a sleek tulip-form bowl atop a delicate, elongated stem. While currently presenting a heavy mantle of tarnish, the underlying form is one of balanced proportions and understated elegance, designed to serve fine liqueurs or digestifs.
Key Features
Tall, 'stilt-like' stem; deep U-shaped bowl; minimalist aesthetic; lack of decorative banding or engraving; small footprint.
Material & Composition
Likely Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Based on the oxidation pattern and the thinness of the rim, it appears to be solid silver rather than plate, though a 'Weighted' base (silver shell over pitch/wax) is common for this form.
Finish & Decoration
Original polished mirror finish now obscured by heavy tarnish (patina). The design is completely unadorned, relying on the elegant tulip-shaped bowl and slender drawn stem for aesthetic appeal.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Marks are not clearly visible in the primary image, but would typically be found on the underside of the base. Expected marks include 'Sterling', a maker's hallmark, and perhaps a model number (e.g., '12' or '55'). A small circular maker's cartouche appears faintly on the side of the bowl, possibly a retailer's stamp or export mark.
Construction Details
Three-piece construction consisting of a spun bowl, a machine-turned or cast stem, and a die-struck base. The components are joined with silver solder at the transition points.
Functional Features
Flared rim for ease of sipping high-proof liqueurs; slender stem to prevent hand heat from warming the chilled spirit; wide circular base for stability.
Handle & Grip Details
Slender, solid-tapered silver stem designed for a delicate pinch-grip. The transition from stem to bowl is seamless, indicating mid-range to high-quality industrial manufacturing.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard industrial silver production. Symmetry is excellent, and the solder joins are well-blended, though the item lacks the distinctive 'hammer marks' of hand-wrought artisan silver.
Authentication Indicators
The blue/black hue of the tarnish is consistent with high-grade silver sulfide. The 'Sterling' stamp (if present) and the weight-to-size ratio are the primary indicators for authenticity versus silverplate (EPNS).
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely USA (Providence or Connecticut area) or Mexico (Taxco). The form was a staple of American wedding registries and cocktail culture in the 1950s.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (c. 1945–1965). The absence of Victorian or Art Deco ornamentation places it firmly in the post-WWII era of 'Atomic Age' minimalism.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950. The silhouette is typical of the rise in popularity of home bar-cart culture during this decade.
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-war shift toward sleek, machine-perfected silver design and the American social ritual of the 'after-dinner drink.'
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. The piece displays heavy tarnish/oxidation throughout. There are visible surface 'bloom' marks. No major dents are visible on the bowl, though the base rim shows possible light warping. Needs professional polishing (Grade: Good - 'As Found').
Value Estimate
$25.00 - $45.00 USD for a single stem; $150.00 - $250.00 USD for a boxed set of six, depending on maker and silver weight.
Care & Maintenance
Requires a thorough cleaning with a high-quality silver cream (e.g., Wright's). Avoid 'dip' cleaners for weighted pieces as liquid can seep into the base. Store in a flannel-lined chest to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Pieces
Gorham 'Chantilly' cordials (which would have chased detail) or Tiffany & Co. cocktail stems (which usually feature a more flared bowl). Often confused with pewter cordials, which have a duller, greyish cast.
Interesting Facts
Cordial glasses of this height were often sold in sets of 6 or 8 and were a required element of 'proper' formal dining service until the late 1960s. Today, they are popular among 'maximalist' barware collectors.