Mid-Century Modern Sterling Silver Beaker or Julep Cup
Hollowware (Beaker / Julep Cup / Tumbler) · Likely American; potential makers include Gorham, Reed & Barton, or International Silver Co. The lack of visible ornamentation suggests a high-quality manufacturer focusing on form over surface decoration.
Pattern: Classic Plain Tapered / Minimalist Modern. This form is common across major silver houses and often lacks a specific pattern name, categorized under 'Plain' or 'Colonial' lines.
Type
Hollowware (Beaker / Julep Cup / Tumbler)
Maker
Likely American; potential makers include Gorham, Reed & Barton, or International Silver Co. The lack of visible ornamentation suggests a high-quality manufacturer focusing on form over surface decoration.
Material
Likely Sterling Silver (.925 purity) based on the luster and color. It appears to be solid metal rather than plated, given the depth of the reflections and the slight denting visible.
Dimensions
Estimated height of 4.5 to 5.5 inches; 3-inch diameter at the mouth. Approximate weight between 120g and 180g (4-6 troy ounces) depending on wall thickness.
Description
This elegant sterling silver beaker represents the peak of American minimalist hollowware. Its sleek, tapering silhouette and perfectly rolled rim demonstrate a mastery of silver-spinning techniques. Devoutly simple, it relies on its mirror-like finish and substantial weight to convey luxury, making it an ideal vessel for cocktails like the Mint Julep or as a sophisticated water tumbler.
Key Features
Tapered form, rolled rim, flat stable base, absence of decoration (focus on silhouette), and high-luster surface finish.
Material & Composition
Likely Sterling Silver (.925 purity) based on the luster and color. It appears to be solid metal rather than plated, given the depth of the reflections and the slight denting visible.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish with a rolled rim. The design is completely unadorned (plain), which highlights the silver's natural brilliance and the quality of the spinning process.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not visible in the provided image. Typically found on the underside (base), expected marks would include 'Sterling' and a maker's hallmark (e.g., Gorham's lion-anchor-G or Tiffany & Co. stamp).
Construction Details
Likely metal-spun on a lathe or deep-drawn from a single circular sheet of sterling silver. The rim is rolled (folded) for structural rigidity and comfort while drinking.
Functional Features
Tapered cylindrical body for stacking or nesting; rolled lip for a smooth drinking surface; flat bottom for stability. Designed for cold beverages to keep the liquid chilled.
Handle & Grip Details
Handleless (tumbler style). The grip is dependent on the tapered body, which fits comfortably in the palm.
Craftsmanship Details
Excellent symmetry and uniform wall thickness suggest high-quality factory production. The rolled rim is executed without gaps, indicating professional finishing and deburring.
Authentication Indicators
The color and 'softness' of the reflections are indicative of sterling silver. The type of surface wear and the way the metal has slightly deformed (dented) rather than cracked suggests solid precious metal construction.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States; likely manufactured in New England (Providence or Taunton), which was the hub for silver spinning and mass-production in the 20th century.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (1940-1960). While the form is timeless, the clean lines and lack of gadrooning or bead-work are hallmarks of mid-20th-century American aesthetic preferences.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950. The condition and style suggest a post-WWII manufacture when silver services were popularized as wedding or corporate gifts.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'silver standard' of 20th-century home entertaining and gift-giving, often awarded for horse racing, sailing, or as significant corporate milestones.
Condition Notes
Good overall condition. Notable surface scratches (swirl marks) consistent with cloth polishing and use. A small ding/dent is visible on the lower left side, common for thin-walled hollowware. Tarnish is minimal.
Value Estimate
$150.00 – $350.00 USD, depending on the specific maker's mark and the weight of the silver. Scrapp value provides a floor price of approximately $80-$100.
Care & Maintenance
Polish with high-quality creams like Wright's or Hagerty. Hand-wash only in warm soapy water and dry immediately with a soft microfiber cloth to prevent water spots and tarnish.
Similar Pieces
Mark J. Scearce Julep Cups (distinguished by eagle stamps), Gorham 'Puritan' line beakers, and Tiffany & Co. simple water tumblers.
Interesting Facts
Silver beakers of this shape became the standard for the 'Kentucky Derby' Mint Julep cup, originally crafted by early American silversmiths like Asa Blanchard of Lexington.