Mid-Century Modern Silver Plated Ice Bucket with Reeded Ring Handles
Hollowware (Ice Bucket) · Attributed to mid-20th-century European or American silver-plate manufacturers such as Christofle or international hotelware suppliers, known for durable hospitality and domestic hollowware.
Pattern: Streamlined Mid-Century / Neo-Classical Revival Hospitality Line featuring reeded and fluted border accents.
Type
Hollowware (Ice Bucket)
Maker
Attributed to mid-20th-century European or American silver-plate manufacturers such as Christofle or international hotelware suppliers, known for durable hospitality and domestic hollowware.
Material
Silver Plated Metal (EPNS - Electroplated Nickel Silver) over a durable base metal alloy, with an insulated double-wall interior construction.
Dimensions
Estimated height of approximately 20 to 25 cm (8 to 10 inches) including the finial, with a diameter of roughly 18 cm (7 inches), weighing between 1,200 and 1,800 grams due to insulated double-wall construction.
Description
An elegant and functional mid-century silver-plated ice bucket featuring a distinctive barrel-shaped body with a satin-brushed finish, contrasting against a gleaming mirror-polished domed lid and rim. The piece is accented by finely reeded borders and equipped with matching drop-ring side handles suspended from decorative mounts. A matching stepped finial tops the lid, combining high style with practical thermal insulation for sophisticated entertaining.
Key Features
Contrasting satin and mirror finishes, thermal double-wall insulation, reeded drop-ring side handles, and a classic barrel silhouette.
Material & Composition
Silver Plated Metal (EPNS - Electroplated Nickel Silver) over a durable base metal alloy, with an insulated double-wall interior construction.
Finish & Decoration
Combination mirror-polished finish on the domed lid and rim, contrasting with a satin or brushed matte finish on the main barrel body. Detailed reeding on the lid top, rim border, handle mounts, and drop-ring handles.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not clearly visible in the provided image, but typically found on the base indicating electroplated silver or maker initials for quality standard.
Construction Details
Machine-spun body and lid, with cast or stamped handles and finial securely attached via soldered mounts or interior mechanical fasteners.
Functional Features
Double-walled thermal insulation designed to keep ice frozen for extended periods. Fitted domed lid with a central knob finial for easy gripping. Side drop-ring handles for convenient transport.
Handle & Grip Details
Dual side-mounted drop-ring handles featuring ribbed or reeded texturing, attached via stylized urn or pedestal brackets, offering a secure and ergonomic grip.
Craftsmanship Details
Clean spinning lines, symmetrical form, secure handle mounting, and a well-executed two-tone finish reflecting quality mid-century manufacturing standards.
Authentication Indicators
Sleek spun-metal construction, precise reeding details, and high-quality electroplate application typical of mid-20th-century hospitality and domestic silverware.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely European (France, UK, or Germany) or American manufacture, utilizing advanced mid-century metal spinning and electroplating techniques.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (1950-1970), reflecting post-war cocktail culture and sophisticated home entertaining trends.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1970, based on the sleek barrel form, brushed finish contrast, and neoclassical revival hardware details.
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-World War II affluence and the cultural emphasis on home entertaining, cocktail parties, and sophisticated hospitality traditions.
Condition Notes
Appears to be in very good vintage condition with minimal surface wear, light scuffing consistent with age and gentle use, and intact silver plating without visible base metal bleed-through.
Value Estimate
Estimated market value ranges from $100 to $300 USD depending on the specific maker's mark, exact condition, and presence of an original interior liner or tongs.
Care & Maintenance
Wash gently with warm water and mild dish soap using a soft sponge. Dry immediately with a microfiber cloth. Use professional silver polishing cream sparingly only on the polished portions to avoid damaging the satin finish.
Similar Pieces
Similar mid-century ice buckets produced by manufacturers like Christofle, WMF, or Napier, often distinguished by handle shape and surface finish variations.
Interesting Facts
Ice buckets became a central status symbol in mid-century American and European homes during the rise of the modern cocktail lounge era and home bar culture.