Mid-Century Modern Sterling Silver Domed Wine Bottle Coaster or Platter Base
Hollowware/Tableware Accessory · Unknown Manufacturer; features characteristic industrial-design aesthetics typical of mid-20th-century American or Danish companies like International Silver or Georg Jensen.
Pattern: Modernist Plain; non-ornamental, high-mirror finish, currently out of production in this exact gauge and convex form.
Type
Hollowware/Tableware Accessory
Maker
Unknown Manufacturer; features characteristic industrial-design aesthetics typical of mid-20th-century American or Danish companies like International Silver or Georg Jensen.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) alloy; solid construction throughout without visible base metal, containing 92.5% silver and 7.5% copper for strength.
Dimensions
Estimated Diameter 4-6 inches; estimated weight 150-250 grams based on visible curvature and light reflection depth.
Description
A striking example of Modernist silver, this circular piece features a deep, flawless mirror finish that captures the surrounding environment. Its minimalist design highlights the inherent luster of sterling silver without the distraction of pattern, making it a versatile addition to contemporary dining decor.
Key Features
Parabolic curvature, high reflectivity, lack of traditional borders, and heavy gauge silver construction.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) alloy; solid construction throughout without visible base metal, containing 92.5% silver and 7.5% copper for strength.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish; characterized by a total lack of ornamentation (no borders, engraving, or chasing) adhering to 'Form Follows Function' principles.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not visible in image; usually found on the underside or rim, featuring the word 'STERLING' and a maker's hallmark such as a shield, initials, or bird symbol.
Construction Details
Machine-spun from a flat sterling sheet, then machine-polished; features a rolled or finished edge to prevent sharpness.
Functional Features
Convex domed surface designed to catch condensation or serve as a structural base; highly reflective surface serves as a mirror in table settings.
Handle & Grip Details
None; the piece is designed for stationary tablet use or as a structural component within a larger serving set.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision-engineered consistency; the thickness is remarkably uniform, indicating a high-quality die or lathe process rather than artisan hammer-raising.
Authentication Indicators
Symmetry and depth of reflection suggest high-quality mechanical spinning; surface wear pattern is consistent with soft precious metal rather than harder stainless steel.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely United States (Providence, RI) or Denmark (Copenhagen); manufactured in an industrial workshop environment using high-pressure spinning lathes.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (1945-1970); evidenced by the clean, minimalist lines and heavy emphasis on industrial polish and geometric simplicity.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1965; the style reflects post-war optimism and the transition away from Victorian and Edwardian ornamentation.
Cultural Significance
Represents the shift in domestic luxury from labor-intensive hand-engraving to the beauty of factory-perfect industrial surfaces and high-purity materials.
Condition Notes
Very Good; exhibits surface micro-scratches from handling ('patina of use') but no significant dents, pitting, or tarnish spots. Reflection is clear.
Value Estimate
$150-$450 USD; value depends heavily on the weight of the silver and the prestige of the maker's mark found on the reverse side.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a high-quality nonsulphuric cream like Wright's Silver Cream; use only microfiber cloths to prevent circular 'swirl' marks in the mirror finish.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany & Co. 'Padova' bowls or Georg Jensen 'Bernadotte' flatware bases; distinguished from these by the lack of any radial ribbing or signature branding on the face.
Interesting Facts
Items like this were often marketed as 'space-age' silver during the 1960s, designed to look sleek on glass-top tables prominent in that era.