Mid-Century Modern Silver Plate Water Goblet
Hollowware (Goblet/Drinking Vessel) · Likely International Silver Co. or Sheridan Silver Co.; these manufacturers dominated the mid-20th century American silver-plate market with durable, affordable institutional and home barware.
Pattern: Streamlined Modernist Plain; typical of 'Hotel' or 'Catering' lines designed for mass appeal and easy cleaning.
Type
Hollowware (Goblet/Drinking Vessel)
Maker
Likely International Silver Co. or Sheridan Silver Co.; these manufacturers dominated the mid-20th century American silver-plate market with durable, affordable institutional and home barware.
Material
Silver plate over a base metal (likely brass or copper nickel/EPNS); the heavy tarnish and dark appearance are typical of silver-plated surfaces exposed to oxygen over long periods.
Dimensions
Extrapolated size: approx. 6-7 inches in height; diameter of 3.5 inches at the rim. Weight likely between 250-350 grams due to the base metal density.
Description
An elegant, minimalist water or wine goblet featuring a deep, U-shaped bowl supported by a slender, tapering stem and a wide circular foot. Its simple lines and lack of busy patterns epitomize the mid-20th-century shift toward sleek, modern dining aesthetics.
Key Features
Sleek unadorned surface, tapering 'trumpet' style stem, weighted flared base, and a high-volume bowl typical of American water goblets.
Material & Composition
Silver plate over a base metal (likely brass or copper nickel/EPNS); the heavy tarnish and dark appearance are typical of silver-plated surfaces exposed to oxygen over long periods.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish (originally); no engraving or applied decoration. The style is strictly Mid-Century Modern/Minimalist, focusing on form and silhouette rather than ornament.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually found on the underside of the base; likely stamped 'EPNS' (Electro-Plated Nickel Silver), 'Silverplate', or a maker's mark like a crown or eagle logo associated with American mass producers.
Construction Details
Machine-made and factory-produced; the bowl is likely spun from a metal sheet, while the stem and weighted base are cast and soldered together.
Functional Features
Includes a tall stem to prevent the hand from warming the liquid and a circular stepped base for stability.
Handle & Grip Details
Solid tapered pedestal stem designed for a comfortable three-finger grip; base of bowl is rounded to facilitate pouring and sipping.
Craftsmanship Details
Factory-grade craftsmanship; emphasis is on durability and uniformity. Solder joints are clean and hidden at the stem-to-bowl junction.
Authentication Indicators
The weight-to-size ratio and the specific tone of the tarnish (which looks like classic sulfide on silver plate) identify this as a silver-plated object rather than solid sterling.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely United States or United Kingdom; produced in a mass-manufacturing factory setting rather than a craft workshop.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (c. 1950-1970). The lack of ornamentation and the use of a simple flared bowl are hallmarks of the post-war functionalist aesthetic.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960. The silhouette is consistent with tableware used in mid-century American suburban entertaining.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'democratization of luxury' in the post-WWII era, where silver-plated items allowed middle-class families to emulate the prestigious formal dining rooms of the upper class.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Significant surface tarnish (oxidation) is visible, appearing as a dark, iridescent film. There are no obvious dents, suggesting the base metal is sturdy brass or nickel.
Value Estimate
$5.00 - $15.00. As a single plated item from a thrift store, it has high utility value but low investment value. A full set of 8 might sell for $60-$100.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild silver cream (e.g., Wright's) using a soft sponge. Avoid abrasive pads which can strip the thin silver plating and reveal the yellow/red base metal underneath ('bleeding').
Similar Pieces
Tiffany & Co. sterling goblets (thinner walls, higher value), Wallace 'Grand Baroque' plated goblets (heavily decorated), and pewter goblets (duller finish).
Interesting Facts
Silver-plated goblets like this were incredibly popular wedding gifts in the mid-20th century, often sold in sets of 8 or 12 to accompany fine china.
Notes
Found at trift store