F.B.R. Silver Plated Brass Hollowware Base
Hollowware (likely a Chalice, Goblet, or Small Vessel base) · F.B.R. (Spain). A mid-20th century Spanish manufacturer specializing in silver-plated export ware and religious/decorative metalwork.
Pattern: Unspecified Plain Secondary Base; production status: Discontinued.
Type
Hollowware (likely a Chalice, Goblet, or Small Vessel base)
Maker
F.B.R. (Spain). A mid-20th century Spanish manufacturer specializing in silver-plated export ware and religious/decorative metalwork.
Material
Electroplated Silver over Brass (E.P. Brass). The core is a copper-zinc alloy (brass), which is visible through the worn silver layer (bleeding).
Dimensions
Estimated base diameter 3-4 inches; weight approximately 150-250 grams depending on total vessel height.
Description
This is the underside of a silver-plated decorative item made in Spain by F.B.R. The piece is constructed of brass and was originally coated in a thin layer of silver. Over time, the silver has worn away through polishing or use, revealing the warm, reddish-gold brass base metal beneath. This 'bleeding' effect is common in vintage silver-plated items.
Key Features
The 'E.P. Brass' mark (Electroplated Brass) is the primary identifier, indicating this is not solid sterling silver.
Material & Composition
Electroplated Silver over Brass (E.P. Brass). The core is a copper-zinc alloy (brass), which is visible through the worn silver layer (bleeding).
Finish & Decoration
Polished silver finish, currently showing significant oxidation, tarnish, and copper-toned 'bleeding' where the silver plate has worn off. Planished or spun smooth surface.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Circular stamped mark: 'F.B.R.' at top, 'E.P. BRASS' in the center, and 'SPAIN' at the bottom. These are commercial stamps, not precious metal hallmarks.
Construction Details
Machine-spun or die-struck brass body with an electroplated silver coating. Features a rolled rim at the foot for structural stability.
Functional Features
Weighted or hollow structural base designed to support a vertical vessel; provides stability for a goblet or cup form.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - This image shows the underside of the base; no handles are visible on this component.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial quality; the stamping is clear but the plating is thin. Typical of mass-produced commercial giftware from the mid-to-late 20th century.
Authentication Indicators
The 'E.P. Brass' stamp is a definitive indicator of silver plate. The lack of Spanish 'Pentagram' or 'Lion' hallmarks confirms it is not solid silver.
Origin & Manufacturing
Spain; mass-produced workshop tradition common in the mid-century for decorative exports.
Era & Period
Modern/Post-War era (c. 1950-1980). Characterized by the use of English-language export marks for the international market.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960-1975 based on the style of the san-serif block lettering and the 'Spain' country-of-origin mark.
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-war boom in affordable luxury goods where silver-plated items allowed middle-class households to emulate high-status sterling silver services.
Condition Notes
Fair to Poor condition. The silver plating is heavily worn (high-point wear), with significant tarnish and surface oxidation. The base metal is clearly visible.
Value Estimate
$5.00 - $15.00. Value is primarily decorative/nominal due to the base metal composition and significant wear to the plating.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with mild soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive silver dips or heavy polishing, as the remaining silver layer is very thin and will continue to strip away.
Similar Pieces
Valero Spain silver plate, Leonard Silver plate, or Sheffield Reproduction items. These differ primarily by maker's mark and base metal (e.g., copper vs brass).
Interesting Facts
Spain became a major exporter of silver-plated decorative goods in the mid-20th century to the UK and US markets, often imitating older Victorian or Georgian designs.