Mid-Century Modern Silverplated Bowl by WMF (Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik)
Hollowware · WMF (Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik), founded in 1853 in Germany. Famous for high-quality silverplate and industrial design collaborations.
Pattern: Ikora / Bauhaus-Influenced Pattern, featuring wavy engine-turned borders and geometric textures.
Type
Hollowware
Maker
WMF (Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik), founded in 1853 in Germany. Famous for high-quality silverplate and industrial design collaborations.
Material
EPNS (Electroplated Nickel Silver). The base is a nickel-copper-zinc alloy with a top coating of silver, typical of WMF's industrial output.
Dimensions
Estimated 15-20 cm diameter; 8-10 cm height. Weighs approximately 300-500 grams. Standard service bowl size.
Description
A sleek, industrial-era silverplated bowl featuring crisp machine-turned wavy lines and a textured lower band. This piece represents the German transition from Art Deco motifs into Mid-Century Modern utility.
Key Features
Distinctive wavy engine-turned border, the partial WMF 'Ostrich' hallmark, and the use of 'Ikora' style finish techniques.
Material & Composition
EPNS (Electroplated Nickel Silver). The base is a nickel-copper-zinc alloy with a top coating of silver, typical of WMF's industrial output.
Finish & Decoration
Polished silver finish with machine-engraved wavy guilloché (engine-turned) borders and hammered-effect texturing on the lower section.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The image shows a partial WMF ostrich mark within a rhombus or shield, alongside geometric decorative stamps characteristic of German silverplate.
Construction Details
Spun metal body from sheet nickel silver, with die-stamped decorative bands applied or engraved by machine.
Functional Features
Single-walled serving or decorative bowl with a stable rounded base and slightly flared rim.
Handle & Grip Details
Stemless design without handles, typical of modernist hollowware designed for multi-purpose tabletop use.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial craftsmanship. The symmetry of the engine-turning indicates professional machine work rather than hand-chasing.
Authentication Indicators
The specific font and shape of the WMF mark, combined with the wavy guilloché pattern, are consistent with authentic mid-century WMF production.
Origin & Manufacturing
Geislingen an der Steige, Germany. WMF was a leader in German industrial metalwork manufacturing.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern / Post-War German Design (c. 1950-1960), characterized by streamlined forms and geometric repetition.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1965 based on the style of the ostrich mark and the engine-turned decorative patterns.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of design in post-war Germany, where high-quality metalware became accessible to the growing middle class.
Condition Notes
Very Good Condition. Light surface scratches and localized tarnish. No visible 'bleeding' of the base metal through the silver plating.
Value Estimate
$40 - $120 USD depending on the market and the clarity of the maker's marks.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth; use mild silver cream like Wright's. Avoid abrasive scrubbers that may wear through the plating.
Similar Pieces
WMF Ikora footed bowls, Christofle 'Gallia' line pieces, or Jensen 'Beaded' hollowware (though Jensen is sterling).
Interesting Facts
WMF coined the term 'Ikora' for a specific line of metalwork that utilized heat-tinting or advanced plating techniques to create colorful or unique finishes.