Godinger Silver Art Co. Teapot-Shaped Silver-Plated Zinc Trivet
Decorative Object / Kitchenware (Trivet/Hot Pad) · Godinger Silver Art Co. (GSA), founded in 1973 by Arnold Godinger and William Lefkowitz in New York. Godinger is a prominent manufacturer of giftware and silver plate, known for mass-market availability and eclectic designs.
Pattern: Teapot Silhouette Collection; introduced 1992; out of production (retired collection).
Type
Decorative Object / Kitchenware (Trivet/Hot Pad)
Maker
Godinger Silver Art Co. (GSA), founded in 1973 by Arnold Godinger and William Lefkowitz in New York. Godinger is a prominent manufacturer of giftware and silver plate, known for mass-market availability and eclectic designs.
Material
E.P. Zinc (Electroplated Zinc). The core is a base metal of non-precious zinc alloy, which has been electroplated with a thin layer of silver or a silver-toned metal.
Dimensions
Standard trivet size, approximately 7-8 inches in height and width. Weight is approximately 350-450 grams due to the density of the zinc alloy core.
Description
A charming and functional decorative trivet shaped like a classic teapot. While functional for the kitchen, its design and hanging loop suggest it was intended as much for wall decor as for table protection. The pebbled texture on the back is typical of cast base-metal giftware from this period.
Key Features
Teapot silhouette, 1992 copyright stamp, 'E.P. Zinc' identification, and white protective plastic feet.
Material & Composition
E.P. Zinc (Electroplated Zinc). The core is a base metal of non-precious zinc alloy, which has been electroplated with a thin layer of silver or a silver-toned metal.
Finish & Decoration
Textured 'pebbled' or stippled sand-cast finish on the reverse; likely a polished or bright chrome/silver finish on the front. Features a whimsical teapot silhouette with cutout geometric squares at the base and a stylized handle and spout.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'GODINGER SILVER © 1992' in sans-serif capital letters. Includes an adhesive paper label reading 'E.P. ZINC MADE IN CHINA'.
Construction Details
Mass-produced via sand casting or die casting of zinc alloy. Features visible mounting rivets/points for protective rubber feet and a wall-mount loop at the top.
Functional Features
Flat surface for protecting tabletops from heat; includes plastic/rubber bumper feet to prevent scratching; integrated hanging loop for wall display when not in use.
Handle & Grip Details
Integral cast handle as part of the teapot silhouette; no separate grip material.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial quality. The casting is clean but lacks the hand-finishing or chasing found on higher-end silver-plated or sterling pieces. The finish is applied via bulk electroplating.
Authentication Indicators
The embossed maker's mark and the 'Made in China' sticker are consistent with 1990s Godinger production. The 'E.P. Zinc' mark explicitly confirms this is not sterling silver.
Origin & Manufacturing
Designed in New York, USA; manufactured in China. This represents the shift of silver-plated giftware production to overseas factories in the late 20th century.
Era & Period
Late 20th Century (1990s) / Post-Modern Whimsical Decor. Reflects the 1990s trend for 'Country Kitchen' and teapot-themed collectibles.
Age Estimate
Dated 1992. Confirmed by the copyright stamp on the reverse.
Cultural Significance
Represents the popularity of themed kitchen decor in the 1990s and the commercialization of silver-plated goods as casual household gifts rather than formal heirlooms.
Condition Notes
Good vintage condition. The reverse shows minor oxidation and 'pitting' common in silver-plated zinc. Plastic feet are intact but may show hardening or yellowing with age.
Value Estimate
$10 - $25 USD. Value is driven by decorative appeal and 'teapot collector' interest rather than silver content.
Care & Maintenance
Do not submerge in water for long periods; wipe with a damp cloth. Avoid harsh silver polishes as the electroplating is very thin and can be easily rubbed off to reveal the dark zinc base.
Similar Pieces
Wilton Armetale pewter-style trivets (matte finish), silver-plated brass trivets (heavier/golden hue when worn), and contemporary silicone teapot mats.
Interesting Facts
Godinger Silver Art Co. became one of the most successful silver giftware companies by focusing on 'affordable luxury', making silver-style items accessible to the general public through department stores.