Mid-Century Modern Georg Jensen Sterling Silver 'Bernadotte' Pattern Spoon
Flatware - Serving or Dinner Spoon · Georg Jensen (Denmark). Founded in 1904, Jensen is the most world-renowned name in 20th-century silver, known for high-quality craftsmanship and elevating silver to high art.
Pattern: Bernadotte, designed by Prince Sigvard Bernadotte in 1939. It remains a cornerstone of the Georg Jensen collection and is still in production today.
Type
Flatware - Serving or Dinner Spoon
Maker
Georg Jensen (Denmark). Founded in 1904, Jensen is the most world-renowned name in 20th-century silver, known for high-quality craftsmanship and elevating silver to high art.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Consists of 92.5% pure silver alloyed with 7.5% copper for durability. Solid construction.
Dimensions
Estimated 7-8 inches in length (dinner spoon size) weighing approximately 55-65 grams. Typical for Jensen's heavy-gauge flatware standards.
Description
A striking example of Sigvard Bernadotte's contribution to Danish design, this spoon features the distinctive vertical fluting that defines the 'Bernadotte' pattern. Its clean lines and architectural strength make it one of the most recognizable flatware patterns in history, blending traditional motifs with a streamlined modern aesthetic.
Key Features
Signature vertical fluted handle, rounded terminal, heavy-gauge sterling silver, and the iconic Jensen hallmark.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Consists of 92.5% pure silver alloyed with 7.5% copper for durability. Solid construction.
Finish & Decoration
Polished mirror finish with deep vertical ribbing/grooving. Neo-classical influences combined with functionalist Mid-Century Modernism. The vertical fluting is inspired by Art Deco fluted columns.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The image shows a faint oval hallmark, likely the 'dotted oval' Georg Jensen logo used since 1945. Usually accompanied by '925 S', 'DENMARK', and 'STERLING'.
Construction Details
Forged from a single ingot of silver. The fluting on the handle is likely die-struck and then hand-refined. High-quality seamless transition from bowl to handle.
Functional Features
Ergonomic rounded handle for comfortable grip. Wide, deep bowl designed for soup or serving. Perfectly balanced for weight distribution.
Handle & Grip Details
Solid sterling silver handle characterized by its iconic 'plunger' or 'fluted column' shape. No separate handle components; it is a single-piece construction.
Craftsmanship Details
High-level hand-finishing is evident in the crispness of the grooves. Unlike cheap mass-produced silver, the edges are rounded and smooth to the touch.
Authentication Indicators
The placement and shape of the hallmark are consistent with Jensen's 1945-present mark. The depth of the fluting and the weight of the metal are characteristic of authentic Jensen output.
Origin & Manufacturing
Copenhagen, Denmark. Produced in the Jensen smithy, known for strict quality control and artisanal finishing techniques.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (Design introduced 1939, production shown likely 1945-1970). It represents the transition from Art Deco to Scandinavian Modernism.
Age Estimate
Circa 1945-1960. The appearance of the hallmark in a dotted oval typically points to post-WWII production.
Cultural Significance
Represents the pinnacle of 'Danish Modern' silver. The pattern helped define the aesthetic of 20th-century luxury dining across Europe and North America.
Condition Notes
Very Good. The surface shows light 'patina' or micro-scratches consistent with gentle use. No deep gouges or signs of repair. Hallmarks are slightly worn from polishing.
Value Estimate
$150 - $250 USD per piece depending on specific size and rarity. Larger serving pieces in this pattern can exceed $500.
Care & Maintenance
Hand wash with mild soap. Polish with a high-quality cream like Wright's or Hagerty. Store in a Pacific Silvercloth roll to prevent oxidation and scratches.
Similar Pieces
Jensen 'Acorn' (more decorative/floral), Jensen 'Pyramid' (more Art Deco/geometric), or Tiffany 'English King' (more ornate/traditional).
Interesting Facts
The designer, Sigvard Bernadotte, was the son of King Gustaf VI Adolf of Sweden. He was one of the first members of the Swedish royal family to pursue a professional career in industrial design.