Mid-Century Modern Sterling Silver Rectangular Plaquette
Decorative Object / Bar Stock / Plaquette · Indeterminate maker (likely American or Scandinavian based on minimalist form). Common makers for such sleek profiles include Gorham, Jensen, or International Silver.
Pattern: Modernist Geometric; production status likely discontinued or custom piece.
Type
Decorative Object / Bar Stock / Plaquette
Maker
Indeterminate maker (likely American or Scandinavian based on minimalist form). Common makers for such sleek profiles include Gorham, Jensen, or International Silver.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity minimum). Solid construction without visible base metal; high luster indicates high silver content.
Dimensions
Estimated 2.0 inches width; weight likely between 50-150 grams depending on depth and solid vs. hollow construction.
Description
This sterling silver object embodies the 'Form Follows Function' philosophy. It features a stark, rectangular profile that plays with light through two distinct surface treatments: a brilliant mirror-black reflection and a finely striated horizontal brushed pattern. The piece is a study in minimalist luxury, showcasing the purity of the metal through simple geometry.
Key Features
Dual-texture surface (brushed vs. polished), sharp rectilinear edges, and high-purity silver luster.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity minimum). Solid construction without visible base metal; high luster indicates high silver content.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish on the lower section transitioning to a machine-brushed/satin finish on the upper section. Minimalist aesthetic characteristic of the Mid-Century Modern style.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not visible in current view; typically located on the reverse or bottom edge. Likely includes 'STERLING' or '.925' and a geometric maker's mark.
Construction Details
Precision-rolled bar stock or die-struck sheet. Edges show crisp, machine-finished right angles with no evidence of hand-raising.
Functional Features
Planar reflective surface; potentially a base for a trophy, a high-end paperweight, or a component of a larger desk set.
Handle & Grip Details
None; the piece is a singular geometric form with integrated textured and polished surfaces.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial craftsmanship. The perfection of the grain on the brushed portion indicates a high-tension rolling process, ensuring uniform light diffusion.
Authentication Indicators
Surface oxidation patterns in the micro-scratches are consistent with silver. The crispness of the texture transition indicates professional factory production rather than a later silver-plated imitation.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely United States or Northern Europe. Manufactured using industrial milling or rolling processes common in high-end 20th-century silver factories.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (1945-1970). The juxtaposition of brushed and polished textures is a hallmark of post-war industrial design.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1965 based on the specific industrial finish and lack of ornate ornamentation.
Cultural Significance
Represents the shift in silver usage from ceremonial heirloom dining sets to functional, secular art objects that reflect a modern, streamlined lifestyle.
Condition Notes
Very Good. The mirror finish shows light 'spider-web' surface scratches and minor pitting consistent with handling. No significant tarnish or structural deformations.
Value Estimate
$150 - $450 USD. Value is highly dependent on the identifying maker's mark and total troy ounce weight.
Care & Maintenance
Polish with a high-quality silver cream like Wright's. Use a microfiber cloth for the polished section and a soft horsehair brush for the textured section to avoid flattening the grain.
Similar Pieces
Georg Jensen 'Cypress' accessories or Tiffany & Co. 'Streamerica' line; however, this piece lacks the specific signature rivets of the latter.
Interesting Facts
During the MCM era, silver makers moved away from floral patterns to focus on 'architectural silver' which was designed to complement the clean lines of glass and steel modern homes.