Mid-Century Modern Square Enamel and Sterling Silver Nut Dish by Reed & Barton
Hollowware (Nut Dish / Vide-poche / Small Serving Bowl) · Reed & Barton, Taunton, Massachusetts. Founded in 1824, they were one of America\'s most prestigious silversmiths, known for high-quality hollowware and flatware for over 200 years.
Pattern: Modernist Enamel Series. Introduced in the 1950s, this collection focused on vibrant, jewel-toned glass enameling over sterling silver bases.
Type
Hollowware (Nut Dish / Vide-poche / Small Serving Bowl)
Maker
Reed & Barton, Taunton, Massachusetts. Founded in 1824, they were one of America\'s most prestigious silversmiths, known for high-quality hollowware and flatware for over 200 years.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) base with a fused vitreous glass enamel interior lining. The rim and exterior are silver.
Dimensions
Approximately 3.5 to 5 inches square; depth of 1 inch. Estimated silver weight: 80 - 120 grams depending on size variant.
Description
This exquisite modernist dish exemplifies the marriage of traditional silversmithing and mid-century aesthetic innovation. The vibrant teal enamel interior features subtle concentric ripples beneath the glass, catching the light and creating depth against the cool sterling silver frame. Its organic square shape provides a sophisticated pop of color to any modernist interior.
Key Features
Translucent teal enamel over textured silver; square form with rounded corners; lack of traditional ornamentation; high-quality Reed & Barton sterling base.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) base with a fused vitreous glass enamel interior lining. The rim and exterior are silver.
Finish & Decoration
Basse-taille enamel technique featuring a translucent turquoise/teal glaze over a textured (guilloché-like) silver base. The rim has a soft satin to mirror polish finish with a minimalist aesthetic.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually found on the bottom: Reed & Barton logo, \"STERLING\", and sometimes a numerical model number (e.g., X146 or X147).
Construction Details
Precision die-struck or spun sterling silver form with hand-applied and kiln-fired enamel. The square shape features rounded \"pillowed\" corners characteristic of atomic-age design.
Functional Features
Smooth, rounded edges for easy cleaning; the heavy enamel provides a durable, food-safe surface for small snacks or as a catch-all for jewelry.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - Rimless, handle-less square bowl designed for a sleek, low-profile silhouette.
Craftsmanship Details
Exceptional vitreous enamel application requiring multiple kiln firings at high temperatures. The silver-to-enamel bond is seamless, showing high-level industrial artisan skill.
Authentication Indicators
The translucency of the enamel and the specific \'scroll\' texture visible beneath it are classic Reed & Barton indicators. The thickness of the silver rim is consistent with the .925 sterling weight used in this series.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States; Taunton, Massachusetts. Produced during the peak of American industrial silver manufacturing.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (c. 1950 - 1965). The minimalist form and bold use of color reflect the post-war shift toward clean lines and industrial-inspired luxury.
Age Estimate
Circa 1955-1960. The teal/turquoise color palette was a signature of the late 50s home decor trend.
Cultural Significance
Represents the diversification of silver use in the 1950s—moving away from formal dinner services toward casual, stylish living room and cocktail hour accessories.
Condition Notes
Interior enamel appears intact with some light surface micro-scratches. Silver rim shows light tarnish and minor handling marks. Grade: Very Good. Note: Enamel is prone to chipping if dropped.
Value Estimate
$150.00 - $350.00 USD depending on size and presence of original branding. Larger bowls in this series can fetch more.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid machine washing. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth only. Do not use silver dip or abrasive cleaners as they can etch the glass enamel. Store flat to prevent enamel chips.
Similar Pieces
Towle Silversmiths Enamel series (often thinner silver); Danish enamel dishes by Frigast or David-Andersen (different hallmark system); Cartier enamel trays (higher price point).
Interesting Facts
The teal enamel used by Reed & Barton was specifically designed to mimic the luxury of Italian and Scandinavian glass while providing the weight and permanence of American sterling silver.