Mid-Century Modernist Sterling Silver Circular Box
Hollowware/Decorative Object · Unknown Maker (likely American or Scandinavian), unidentified without hallmark visibility
Pattern: Modernist Geometric / Plain Cylinder Pattern; no specific commercial collection name identified
Type
Hollowware/Decorative Object
Maker
Unknown Maker (likely American or Scandinavian), unidentified without hallmark visibility
Material
Likely Sterling Silver (.925) or high-quality Silver Plate on Nickel; requires hallmark confirmation
Dimensions
Estimated 4-6 inches in diameter; approximately 150-300 grams depending on wall thickness
Description
A sleek, cylindrical silver box featuring a flat lid and high-mirror polish. This piece represents the ‘Less is More’ aesthetic of the mid-20th century, focusing on the quality of the metal and geometric perfection rather than ornate embellishment.
Key Features
Minimalist cylindrical form; seamless appearance; high-reflectivity surface; sharp machine-turned edges
Material & Composition
Likely Sterling Silver (.925) or high-quality Silver Plate on Nickel; requires hallmark confirmation
Finish & Decoration
Polished mirror finish; minimalist design with no applied decoration or engraving
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not visible in provided image; likely located on the underside or inner rim of the base
Construction Details
Machine-spun or die-stamped circular form with a precision-fit slip lid and seamed or spun body
Functional Features
Friction-fit removable lid; intended for storage of tobacco, jewelry, or desktop accessories
Handle & Grip Details
None; flush-mount lid design relies on a slightly overhanging rim for manual lifting
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial craftsmanship; showcases mastery of spinning and polishing to achieve a perfectly flat, reflective top surface
Authentication Indicators
The reflection quality suggest a solid silver or thick silver plate; wear patterns are consistent with soft precious metal rather than stainless steel
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely USA or Western Europe; mass-produced industrial silversmithing techniques used
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (c. 1950-1970); characterized by functional minimalism and lack of ornament
Age Estimate
Circa 1960; based on the high-polish finish and minimalist silhouette
Cultural Significance
Reflects the post-war shift away from Victorian clutter toward Scandinavian-influenced functionalism in domestic silver
Condition Notes
Good condition; significant surface scratching (spider-webbing) consistent with age and cleaning; one small ding on the lid edge; moderate tarnish visible at the rim
Value Estimate
$150 - $400 USD if Sterling; $40 - $80 USD if Silver Plate
Care & Maintenance
Clean with high-quality non-abrasive cream (e.g., Wright's); use a microfiber cloth to minimize further hairline scratches
Similar Pieces
Tiffany & Co. 'Alphabet' boxes; Georg Jensen 'Bernadotte' canisters; Wallace 'Modernist' line
Interesting Facts
Items like this were often sold by high-end retailers like Tiffany & Co. or Jensen as 'executive gifts' for cigars or stationary items during the 1960s