Vintage French Silver-Plated Covered Sugar Bowl
Tea/Coffee Service (Sugar Bowl) · Unidentified European/French maker indicated by 'métal argenté' description
Pattern: Minimalist Mid-Century / Modernist Plain Pattern
Type
Tea/Coffee Service (Sugar Bowl)
Maker
Unidentified European/French maker indicated by 'métal argenté' description
Material
Silver Plate (Métal Argenté) over a base metal, likely nickel silver or brass
Dimensions
Standard individual sugar bowl size, approximately 10-12 cm in diameter and 8-10 cm in height including lid; estimated weight under 300 grams
Description
A sleek and functional vintage silver-plated sugar bowl featuring a smooth, flared conical body resting on a stepped pedestal foot. Accompanied by a matching domed lid topped with a classic spherical finial and a convenient notch for a spoon. The polished mirror finish gives it a timeless, understated elegance suitable for everyday dining or casual coffee service.
Key Features
Clean modernist lines, polished silver-plated finish, domed lid with spoon notch, and flared bowl form
Material & Composition
Silver Plate (Métal Argenté) over a base metal, likely nickel silver or brass
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish interior and exterior with clean, unadorned surfaces in a Mid-Century Modern or functionalist style
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not clearly visible in image; typically found on the base or rim for silver-plated items
Construction Details
Machine-formed spun body with a raised foot rim and fitted domed lid featuring a spherical knob finial
Functional Features
Removable domed lid with a small side notch cutout likely intended for a sugar spoon or ladle
Handle & Grip Details
Central spherical knob on the lid for easy lifting; footed pedestal base for stability
Craftsmanship Details
Clean commercial grade stamping and spinning, uniform polished finish, sturdy and utilitarian construction
Authentication Indicators
Typical French secondary market classification as 'métal argenté' (silver-plated); consistent with mid-century hotelware or domestic service sets
Origin & Manufacturing
France or Europe, mass-produced commercial tableware tradition
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (c. 1950-1970)
Age Estimate
Circa 1950s-1970s based on the clean modernist aesthetic and listing description
Cultural Significance
Reflects the post-WWII European domestic lifestyle and the popularity of streamlined, practical tableware designs
Condition Notes
Appears to be in very good vintage condition with a bright reflective surface, minimal signs of wear or plate loss visible in the photograph
Value Estimate
Estimated market value between 15 and 35 Euros individually, as part of the broader 25 Euro lot mentioned in the listing
Care & Maintenance
Wash gently by hand with mild dish soap and warm water; dry immediately with a soft microfiber cloth to prevent water spots; use non-abrasive silver polish only when necessary
Similar Pieces
Standard silver-plated sugar bowls from French manufacturers such as Christofle, Ercuis, or Gallia
Interesting Facts
Often sold as part of a duo coffee and tea service set including a tray, coffee pot, cups, and creamer or sugar bowl