Heinrich & Co. Optic Paneled Porcelain Bowl with Silver Overlay Holder
Hollowware (Bowl with Silver Overlay Holder) · Heinrich & Co. (H&C) Selb, Bavaria, Germany, known for high-quality porcelain manufacturing established in the late 19th century.
Pattern: Geometric Optic Panel Pattern with Silver Overlay Mounts
Type
Hollowware (Bowl with Silver Overlay Holder)
Maker
Heinrich & Co. (H&C) Selb, Bavaria, Germany, known for high-quality porcelain manufacturing established in the late 19th century.
Material
Porcelain body with electroplated silver overlay (EPNS) on the exterior holder and feet.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter of approximately 6 to 8 inches and a height of 4 to 5 inches.
Description
An elegant decorative bowl featuring an optic-paneled porcelain body set within a lustrous silver-plated metal framework and raised on four delicate feet. The piece displays a deep iridescent tarnish, highlighting its vintage character and intricate form.
Key Features
Optic-molded paneled structure, multi-footed silver-plated basket mount, and classic Bavarian porcelain craftsmanship.
Material & Composition
Porcelain body with electroplated silver overlay (EPNS) on the exterior holder and feet.
Finish & Decoration
Polished mirrored silver-plated metal holder featuring four bracket feet, cradling an optic-molded fluted glass or porcelain bowl.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Maker's mark visible on the base: 'H&Co.' logo indicating Heinrich & Co., Selb, Bavaria.
Construction Details
The bowl is molded porcelain with optic panels. The exterior holder is electroplated metal with applied soldered feet and structural rings.
Functional Features
Standalone decorative or serving bowl supported by four raised feet for stability.
Handle & Grip Details
No handles; footed cradle design with integrated silver-plated framework supporting the bowl.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision-molded optic panels combined with custom-fit electroplated metal mounts demonstrate solid mid-century European manufacturing standards.
Authentication Indicators
The H&Co. stamp on the base confirms Bavarian porcelain production, consistent with early-to-mid 20th-century decorative tableware.
Origin & Manufacturing
Selb, Bavaria, Germany
Era & Period
Art Deco / Mid-20th Century (c. 1920-1950 based on the maker's mark and style).
Age Estimate
Circa 1920-1950
Cultural Significance
Reflects the European tradition of combining fine porcelain with decorative metal mounts for dining and parlor display during the early-to-mid 20th century.
Condition Notes
Very Good vintage condition. The silver-plated frame shows heavy natural tarnish and rainbow oxidation, which can be polished or left as desired by collectors. The porcelain structure appears intact without major structural flaws.
Value Estimate
Estimated market value ranges between $50 to $150 USD depending on condition, exact age, and collector demand.
Care & Maintenance
Clean gently with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Use a specialized silver polishing cream cautiously if tarnish removal is desired, avoiding harsh abrasives on the porcelain.
Similar Pieces
WMF (Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik) silver-plated glass and porcelain inserts, and various Bavarian porcelain table bowls with metal mounts.
Interesting Facts
Heinrich & Co. was one of the prominent porcelain manufacturers in Bavaria, frequently collaborating with metalwork decorators to produce mixed-material serving pieces.