Georg Jensen 'Acorn' (Konge) Pattern Sterling Silver Side Plate
Hollowware (Plate/Bread & Butter Plate) · Georg Jensen (Denmark), founded in 1904. Jensen is one of the most celebrated silversmiths of the 20th century, known for blending Art Nouveau and Modernist sensibilities.
Pattern: 'Acorn' (also known as Konge), designed by Johan Rohde in 1915. It remains one of the most iconic and collected silver patterns in history.
Type
Hollowware (Plate/Bread & Butter Plate)
Maker
Georg Jensen (Denmark), founded in 1904. Jensen is one of the most celebrated silversmiths of the 20th century, known for blending Art Nouveau and Modernist sensibilities.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). The piece is solid silver throughout with no base metals or fillers.
Dimensions
Diameter approximately 6 to 7 inches (15-18 cm) for a bread/side plate. Estimated weight between 150 and 220 grams depending on the specific gauge used.
Description
An exquisite example of Danish functionalist design, this sterling silver plate features the world-renowned 'Acorn' pattern. The shimmering, subtly hammered surface reflects light in a soft, organic way characteristic of Jensen's workshop. The contrast between the bright silver and the dark, oxidized details of the acorns provides a timeless aesthetic that bridges classicism and modernity.
Key Features
Signature 'Acorn' fruit and stylized oak leaf motifs, hand-hammered surface texture, and the distinct heavy-gauge feel of Jensen sterling.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). The piece is solid silver throughout with no base metals or fillers.
Finish & Decoration
Hand-hammered finish with oxidized (darkened) recesses to highlight the detail. Features six applied or die-struck acorn and oak leaf motifs on the rim. The style is Art Deco moving toward Mid-Century Modern.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually found on the underside: 'Georg Jensen' in dotted oval, '925 S' (Sterling purity), 'Denmark', and often a design number (e.g., 622). Older pieces may have a date letter or the 'GJ' monogram mark.
Construction Details
Raised and spun from silver sheet with a planished (hammered) surface. The rim decoration is meticulously finished using chasing and oxidation to create depth.
Functional Features
Flat central well for food service with a raised, decorative rim for ease of handling. Durable gauge intended for luxury table service.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A (Plate form); however, the rim width is ergonomically designed for serving stability.
Craftsmanship Details
High-level hand-finishing is evident in the planishing of the well. The transition from the flat surface to the decorative rim is seamless, indicating superior quality control.
Authentication Indicators
Alignment and crispness of the acorn motifs; presence of 'planishing' marks (hammering) which are often missing in cast fakes; specific oxidation depth in the acorn caps.
Origin & Manufacturing
Copenhagen, Denmark. Produced in the Georg Jensen smithy, adhering to strict Danish silver standards.
Era & Period
Art Deco/20th Century Modernist. While designed in 1915, this specific piece's finish suggests a mid-20th-century production.
Age Estimate
Circa 1945-1970 based on the visible tarnish patterns and the consistency of the 'Acorn' motif execution.
Cultural Significance
Represents the pinnacle of 20th-century 'Democratic Design,' where beauty and utility are merged. It remains a status symbol for high-tier Nordic lifestyle and fine dining.
Condition Notes
Very Good condition. Shows moderate tarnish and surface 'sulfide' deposits which can be cleaned. Visible light surface scratches (patina) consistent with light use. No major dents or edge nicks apparent.
Value Estimate
$400 - $750 USD for a single plate, depending on weight and specific hallmarks. Larger dinner-sized plates can exceed $1,200.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water first, then use a high-quality non-abrasive silver cream like Wright's. Avoid silver 'dips' as they will strip the intentional oxidation from the acorn details.
Similar Pieces
Jensen 'Cactus' or 'Pyramid' patterns provide a similar aesthetic; competitor patterns include Tiffany 'English King' or Gorham 'Chantilly', though they lack the Danish Modern hammered finish.
Interesting Facts
The Acorn pattern was designed by Johan Rohde, a painter and architect. It took Jensen three years to perfect the production method before it was released. It has since become the most popular silver pattern of all time.