Grape Vine Pattern Footed Silver Kiddush Cup / Cordial
Hollowware/Ritual Object (Kiddush Cup, Cordial, or Liqueur Tumbler) · Unknown Manufacturer (Likely Continental or American mass-production silversmith)
Pattern: Grape and Leaf Repoussé / Vine Motif
Type
Hollowware/Ritual Object (Kiddush Cup, Cordial, or Liqueur Tumbler)
Maker
Unknown Manufacturer (Likely Continental or American mass-production silversmith)
Material
Likely Silver Plate (EPNS/EPBM) or Low-Grade Silver (800). Shows signs of base metal oxidation (green verdigris).
Dimensions
Estimated 2.5 - 3 inches in height; diameter approx 1.5 inches; weight approx 30-50 grams.
Description
A small footed vessel featuring a continuous embossed grapevine motif around the upper rim. Useable as a cordial for liqueurs or a small Kiddush cup for Jewish Sabbath rituals, characterized by its utilitarian construction and traditional botanical decoration.
Key Features
Continuous grape clusters and vine scroll; pedestal base; conical interior; distinct green oxidation spots suggesting a copper-alloy base metal.
Material & Composition
Likely Silver Plate (EPNS/EPBM) or Low-Grade Silver (800). Shows signs of base metal oxidation (green verdigris).
Finish & Decoration
Repoussé/Embossed Grapevine border near the rim; satin-matte patina with heavy tarnish and oxidation; Victorian-revival style.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not visible in image; likely marked on the underside of the foot with 'Silver Plate,' 'Sterling,' or '800'.
Construction Details
Common die-struck or machine-pressed construction with a separately soldered circular foot.
Functional Features
Tapered conical body for liquid; flared foot for stability; rolled rim for comfortable drinking.
Handle & Grip Details
Handleless vessel; gripped by the body or the short stem between the bowl and foot.
Craftsmanship Details
Medium-grade industrial craftsmanship; standard machine-embossing with visible solder line at the base attachment.
Authentication Indicators
Verdigris (green spots) is a hallmark of silver-plated brass/copper rather than solid sterling; machine-made symmetry indicates industrial production.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely USA, Germany, or Israel; factory-manufactured using mechanical stamping and soldering.
Era & Period
Modern / 20th Century (likely mid-20th century revival of 19th-century motifs).
Age Estimate
Circa 1940-1970 based on the crispness of the stamping and the standard form.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of decorative silver-plated objects for middle-class dining and religious observance in the mid-20th century.
Condition Notes
Fair condition; significant tarnish and surface oxidation; green verdigris spots suggest plating wear-through (pitting) to the base metal.
Value Estimate
$5.00 - $20.00 (primarily decorative or sentimental value due to condition and material).
Care & Maintenance
Gently clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth; use a non-abrasive silver cream (like Wright's) only if plating is still mostly intact; dry thoroughly to prevent further pitting.
Similar Pieces
Wallace or Gorham silver plate cordials; WMF German 800 silver tumblers; Israeli filigree Kiddush cups.
Interesting Facts
The grape motif is traditional for wine vessels, symbolizing abundance and, in Judaica, the 'fruit of the vine' used in blessings.