Mid-Century Modern Silver Plate Cordial Wine Goblet
Hollowware (Stemware, Cordial/Liqueur Goblet) · Likely American or European manufacture, often attributed to companies like Sheridan, Oneida, or international silver plate workshops. The design is characteristic of mass-market 20th-century silver services.
Pattern: Generic Mid-Century Stemware; often sold in sets of 4, 6, or 8. Not associated with a high-relief named pattern like 'Chantilly' or 'Chiselled'.
Type
Hollowware (Stemware, Cordial/Liqueur Goblet)
Maker
Likely American or European manufacture, often attributed to companies like Sheridan, Oneida, or international silver plate workshops. The design is characteristic of mass-market 20th-century silver services.
Material
Silver Plate on white metal or brass. The surface shows 'bleeding' and uneven oxidation typical of Electroplated Nickel Silver (EPNS) or similar silver-layering techniques.
Dimensions
Estimated height of 4.5 to 5.5 inches; diameter of bowl approximately 2 inches. Weight is likely 80-120 grams depending on base weighting.
Description
A classic example of mid-20th-century barware. This cordial goblet features a deep, U-shaped bowl supported by a gracefully cinched pedestal stem. Its minimalist design allowed it to blend seamlessly into the 'atomic' or 'modern' dining rooms of the 1960s. While lacking the intrinsic metal value of sterling, it represents the era's democratization of luxury through silver plating.
Key Features
Seamless appearance between bowl and stem, circular stepped base, lack of monogram or pattern, and high-shine polished plating.
Material & Composition
Silver Plate on white metal or brass. The surface shows 'bleeding' and uneven oxidation typical of Electroplated Nickel Silver (EPNS) or similar silver-layering techniques.
Finish & Decoration
Polished mirror finish with no decorative engraving or chasing. The style is strictly 'Plain' or 'Sleek' following the minimalist aesthetic of the Mid-Century Modern movement.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Typically marked on the underside of the base with 'Silver Plate', 'EPNS', or a specific manufacturer's logo. In the absence of a 'Sterling' or '.925' mark, it is classified as plated.
Construction Details
Machine-made. The piece consists of three parts: the bowl, the stem, and the foot, which are joined by machine welding or soldering. The stem is likely hollow or reinforced.
Functional Features
Tapered bowl for serving liqueurs or cordials; flared 'trumpet' base for stability; slender stem to prevent heat transfer from the hand to the liquid.
Handle & Grip Details
Integrated pedestal stem; smooth, hourglass-shaped grip without ornamentation. Condition appears slightly dulled by surface oxidation.
Craftsmanship Details
Typical industrial quality; balanced and symmetrical but showing machine-spinning marks. No evidence of hand-tooling or artisan chasing.
Authentication Indicators
The luster and color of the tarnish (warm/yellowish tones) are indicative of silver plate rather than the cool grey-black of high-purity sterling. The lack of visible hallmarks on the visible exterior is consistent with commercial plated ware.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely USA or England. Mass-produced in industrial factories utilizing electroplating baths to coat base-metal stampings.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (c. 1950-1970). Characterized by the lack of Victorian ornamentation and a focus on clean, streamlined geometric forms.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960. The silhouette is typical of hospitality and Giftware lines from the late 1950s through the 1970s.
Cultural Significance
Represents the shift in post-war social customs where formal dining sets became accessible to the middle class through manufacturing innovations like electroplating.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Visible 'clouding' or 'bloom' on the bowl suggests oxidation or early stages of plate wear (pitting). There are visible surface scuffs and light scratches consistent with use and improper storage.
Value Estimate
$5 - $15 USD for a single piece; $40 - $60 for a set of 6. Value is primarily decorative/functional rather than precious metal based.
Care & Maintenance
Polish with a non-abrasive silver cream (e.g., Wright's). Avoid 'silver dips' which can strip the thin layer of plating. Dry immediately after hand-washing to prevent water spots.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany & Co. Sterling Cordials (would have hallmarks and thinner walls); Pewter goblets (matte finish, heavier); Stainless steel versions (bluer tint, no tarnish).
Interesting Facts
Sets like these were staple wedding gifts in the mid-20th century, often sold through department stores like Sears or Macy's to mimic the look of fine hotel silver.