Modernist Octagonal Sterling Silver Dish by Barker Ellis Silver Co.
Hollowware (Small octagonal dish or bowl base) · Barker Ellis Silver Co. (formerly Barker Brothers Silversmiths). A highly reputable Birmingham-based firm founded in 1801, known for high-quality domestic hollowware.
Pattern: Octagonal Modernist/Minimalist series, typical of mid-20th-century geometric design.
Type
Hollowware (Small octagonal dish or bowl base)
Maker
Barker Ellis Silver Co. (formerly Barker Brothers Silversmiths). A highly reputable Birmingham-based firm founded in 1801, known for high-quality domestic hollowware.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Solid construction with no evidence of plating or base metal.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter: 10-15 cm (4-6 inches); estimated weight: 120-180 grams. Small accessory size.
Description
An elegant example of late 1960s British silver design, this octagonal dish by Barker Ellis balances the sharp geometry of the Space Age with a textured 'brutalist' rim. The highly polished interior provides a stark, luxurious contrast to the rugged outer border, making it a sophisticated piece of functional art.
Key Features
Distinctive octagonal shape; organic 'lava' or 'bark' texture on the rim; clear Birmingham 1969 hallmarks; high-luster mirror finish.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Solid construction with no evidence of plating or base metal.
Finish & Decoration
Polished mirror finish on the interior well; the rim features a textured, possibly cast or applied 'bark' or 'rugged' texture indicative of the late 1960s or early 1970s organic style.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Full set of British Hallmarks: Maker's Mark 'B&Co' for Barker Ellis Silver Co; Anchor for Birmingham Assay Office; Lion Passant for Sterling Silver (.925); Date Letter 'U' for 1969. Note: A secondary import or retailer mark is also visible.
Construction Details
Cast or die-struck octagonal frame with a soldered planar base. The texture on the rim is likely achieved through a casting process or specialized chasing to mimic natural textures.
Functional Features
Flat-bottomed base for stability; low-profile rim suitable for use as a trinket dish, coaster, or small serving piece.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - the item is a rimmed dish without handles.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality finishing is evident in the crisp angles of the octagon and the seamless joinery between the textured rim and the flat base.
Authentication Indicators
Hallmarks are struck deeply and correctly for the period. The maker's mark 'B&Co' aligns perfectly with Barker Ellis records for the late 1960s. Weight and luster are consistent with sterling silver.
Origin & Manufacturing
Birmingham, England. Produced in the historic Jewellery Quarter by Barker Ellis using traditional silversmithing techniques combined with modern industrial casting.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern / Brutalist influence (Late 1960s). This period saw a shift from traditional ornamentation to geometric shapes and organic textures.
Age Estimate
Manufactured in 1969, based on the Birmingham 'U' date letter hallmark.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the transition in British silversmithing from post-war austerity to the more experimental and bold geometric designs of the 1960s and 70s.
Condition Notes
Very Good condition. Shows some surface micro-scratching on the mirror-finish well from cleaning. Significant tarnish/patina is visible in the textured rim crevices, which is desirable to highlight the detail. No visible dents or structural damage.
Value Estimate
$150 - $250 USD, depending on weight and regional market demand for mid-century silver.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water first. Use a liquid silver polish and a soft cloth for the well; avoid heavy abrasive pastes in the textured rim to prevent residue buildup. Store in a tarnish-resistant cloth bag.
Similar Pieces
Stuart Devlin textured silver pieces or Gerald Benney minimalist hollowware from the same era; however, Barker Ellis pieces are generally more accessible while maintaining high craft standards.
Interesting Facts
Barker Ellis was formed by the merger of Barker Brothers and Ellis & Co. in the 1960s, a period where they attempted to modernize their traditional catalog with 'Brutalist' and experimental textures popular in jewelry at the time.