Mid-Century Modern Silver Plate Wine Goblet
Hollowware (Goblet/Stemware) · Unknown manufacturer, likely American or European (e.g., Gorham, Reed & Barton, or E.P.N.S. manufacturer). Form suggests mid-tier commercial production.
Pattern: Simple Plain Pattern; generic Mid-Century Modern design characterized by minimalist aesthetic and lack of applied ornament.
Type
Hollowware (Goblet/Stemware)
Maker
Unknown manufacturer, likely American or European (e.g., Gorham, Reed & Barton, or E.P.N.S. manufacturer). Form suggests mid-tier commercial production.
Material
Silver Plate (Electroplated Nickel Silver or Brass). The base metal is likely brass or copper, visible where the silver layer has thinned or oxidized to a warm, yellowish-brown tone.
Dimensions
Approximately 5-6 inches in height with a 2-3 inch diameter bowl. Estimated weight is 150-250 grams depending on base metal thickness.
Description
An elegant, minimalist silver-plated wine goblet featuring a deep, rounded bowl and a slender, tapering stem. This piece represents the mid-century shift toward simple, functional forms. The surface currently displays a heavy iridescent tarnish, typical of silver exposed to air without maintenance, which can be polished to a brilliant shine.
Key Features
Tapered 'trumpet' stem, seamless bowl interior, absence of decorative banding, and a classic mid-century profile.
Material & Composition
Silver Plate (Electroplated Nickel Silver or Brass). The base metal is likely brass or copper, visible where the silver layer has thinned or oxidized to a warm, yellowish-brown tone.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish with heavy tarnish (patination). Plain surface without engraving, chasing, or repoussé. Minimalist utilitarian style.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not visible in the image; likely stamped on the bottom of the base with 'Silverplate', 'E.P.N.S.', or a maker's mark and catalog number.
Construction Details
Machine-made; three-part construction (bowl, stem, and base) joined with solder. The stem is likely cast or machine-turned, while the bowl and base are spun.
Functional Features
Tapered bowl for liquid retention, slender stem for heat insulation from the hand, and a flared, weighted base for stability.
Handle & Grip Details
Slender, tapered trumpet-style stem providing a ergonomic grip typical of 20th-century stemware.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard commercial craftsmanship; clean solder joints at the base and bowl connection. High degree of symmetry indicative of machine-lathe production.
Authentication Indicators
Solder lines at joints, machine-turned consistency, and the specific rainbow-colored tarnish pattern unique to silver and silver-plate surfaces.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely manufactured in a mass-production facility in the United States or Great Britain. Common in the hospitality and home entertaining markets of the mid-20th century.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (c. 1950-1970). Characterized by the lack of Victorian ornamentation and a focus on clean, geometric lines.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960. Based on the profile of the stem and the type of oxidation appearing on the silver-plated surface.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the post-war rise of formal home entertaining and 'cocktail culture' in Western middle-class households.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Heavy surface oxidation and tarnish are present. There appear to be minor surface abrasions. The yellowish hue in certain areas suggests the silver plating may be wearing thin (bleeding).
Value Estimate
$5.00 - $15.00 USD for a single plated goblet. Value increases if part of a complete set with original box.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water first, then use a non-abrasive silver cream (like Wright's) with a soft cloth. Avoid dishwasher use, as high heat can damage the solder joints and finish.
Similar Pieces
Sterling silver versions by Tiffany or Gorham (which would be hallmarked 'Sterling' and be heavier); modern stainless steel alternatives (which do not tarnish).
Interesting Facts
Silver-plated goblets were often sold in sets of 4, 6, or 8 and were popular wedding gifts in the 1950s and 60s as a more affordable alternative to sterling silver.