Georg Jensen Sterling Silver Acorn (Konge) Condiment or Demitasse Spoon
Flatware (Small Spoon) · Georg Jensen (Denmark), founded 1904. Jensen is one of the most influential silversmiths of the 20th century, renowned for his fusion of Art Nouveau and organic modernism.
Pattern: Acorn (Danish: Konge), designed by Johan Rohde in 1915. It remains Jensen's most iconic and sought-after pattern worldwide.
Type
Flatware (Small Spoon)
Maker
Georg Jensen (Denmark), founded 1904. Jensen is one of the most influential silversmiths of the 20th century, renowned for his fusion of Art Nouveau and organic modernism.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity) with a small porcelain or enamel insert visible at the top bowl connection.
Dimensions
Approximately 3.5 to 4.5 inches (9-11 cm) in length. Estimated weight: 12-18 grams. This is a diminutive size for salt, sugar, or espresso.
Description
This elegant small spoon showcases the timeless 'Acorn' pattern by Johan Rohde. The handle features clean, architectural lines that taper into a refined neck, terminating in a smooth oval bowl. The design manages to be both classic and contemporary, making it a staple for silver collectors.
Key Features
The 'reeds' on the handle, the tapered neck, and the specific Georg Jensen maker's mark are the primary diagnostic features.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity) with a small porcelain or enamel insert visible at the top bowl connection.
Finish & Decoration
Polished mirror finish on the handle with characteristic oxidized (darkened) highlights in the recessed grooves for contrast. The style is Art Deco influenced organic modernism.
Hallmarks & Stamps
A post-1945 Georg Jensen 'Dotted Oval' hallmark is partially visible near the neck/joint. It features the 'GI' or 'Georg Jensen' name inside a dotted ellipse. A '.925' or 'Sterling Denmark' mark is typically stamped on the reverse.
Construction Details
Cast handle and bowl subsequently hand-finished and polished. The spoon features a tapered, paneled grip that flares toward the terminal.
Functional Features
Small bowl for condiments, salt, or thick cream. Includes a non-metal decorative insert (likely porcelain) at the junction of the handle and bowl.
Handle & Grip Details
Hollow-form but heavy gauge sterling silver handle. Features the distinctive longitudinal ribs (reeding) and teardrop shape of the Acorn collection.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality hand-finishing is evident in the crispness of the handle lines. The transition from handle to bowl is seamless, a hallmark of Jensen quality.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic dotted oval hallmark; proper weight and balance; correct pattern profile for the Rohde 1915 design.
Origin & Manufacturing
Copenhagen, Denmark; Georg Jensen Silversmithy. Produced using traditional Danish silversmithing techniques combined with precision manufacturing.
Era & Period
Originally 1915 design, though this specific piece is from the Mid-Century/Modern era (post-1945) based on the hallmark style.
Age Estimate
Circa 1945-1970 based on the 'dotted oval' logo seen in many Danish silver items of the period.
Cultural Significance
Acorn silver became a global symbol of refined Scandinavian design, especially popular in mid-20th century America as a status symbol of modern luxury.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent. Light surface scratches (swirls) from previous polishing are visible. Moderate tarnish in the crevices is intentional to highlight the pattern.
Value Estimate
$125 - $225 USD depending on the specific retail venue and buyer demand. Small condiment pieces often command higher prices-per-ounce than standard dinner pieces.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Use a specialized silver cream like Wright's only when necessary; avoid over-polishing the recessed areas to preserve the oxidation.
Similar Pieces
Jensen 'Cactus' or 'Pyramid' patterns. Competitor alternatives include Tiffany 'Audubon' or Gorham 'Chantilly' for high-end collectors.
Interesting Facts
Johan Rohde, a painter and architect, joined Jensen in 1906. The Acorn pattern was originally designed for Rohde's own personal use before Jensen convinced him to release it commercially.