Mid-Century Modern Style Stainless Steel Table Spoon
Flatware - Spoon (likely a Place Spoon or Soup Spoon) · Indeterminable from image; mass-market industrial manufacturer
Pattern: Generic Flat Pattern / Tapered Handle Style
Type
Flatware - Spoon (likely a Place Spoon or Soup Spoon)
Maker
Indeterminable from image; mass-market industrial manufacturer
Material
Stainless Steel (likely 18/0 or 18/10 grade); non-precious metal
Dimensions
Estimated 18-20 cm length; approximately 40-55 grams
Description
A utilitarian, contemporary spoon featuring a clean, minimalist silhouette. The design eschews traditional ornamentation in favor of a smooth, reflective surface and a simple geometric handle. While functional for daily use, it lacks the metallurgical value and artistic flourishes of fine antique silver.
Key Features
Single-piece construction, high-luster finish, lack of decorative scrollwork or monograms
Material & Composition
Stainless Steel (likely 18/0 or 18/10 grade); non-precious metal
Finish & Decoration
Mirror polish finish with visible surface abrasions; minimalist unadorned design
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not visible; likely stamped 'Stainless Steel' and country of origin on reverse
Construction Details
Machine die-struck from a flat sheet of industrial steel; mass-produced
Functional Features
Ovoid bowl for liquids; flared handle for ergonomic grip; dishwasher safe
Handle & Grip Details
Solid one-piece construction; flat rectangular profile with slight distal taper
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial machine quality; uniform thickness; lacks the hand-finishing or weight distribution of forged silver
Authentication Indicators
Color of metal suggests chromium/nickel alloy rather than sterling; lack of hallmarks; machine-smooth edges
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely manufactured in East Asia (China, Vietnam, or Indonesia) for global retail
Era & Period
Modern Era (late 20th - early 21st Century); influenced by Scandinavian minimalism
Age Estimate
Circa 1990-present day
Cultural Significance
Represents the shift toward 'everyday' functionalism and the democratization of dining ware in the post-industrial era
Condition Notes
Fair to Good; heavy surface scratching and scuffing consistent with high-frequency use and mechanical washing
Value Estimate
Nominal market value ($0.50 - $2.00); largely utilitarian rather than collectible
Care & Maintenance
Standard dishwasher use; occasional use of a mild abrasive to remove water spots
Similar Pieces
Oneida, Mikasa, or IKEA stainless flatware; distinguishable from silver by weight, temperature, and marks
Interesting Facts
Stainless steel revolutionised dining in the 20th century, replacing silver in most households due to its durability and resistance to tarnish