Mid-Century Modern Silverplated Wine Goblet with Incised Rim
Hollowware (Stemware, Wine Goblet) · Unknown manufacturer; likely an American or European commercial silver company such as Sheridan, Leonard, or F.B. Rogers, commonly specialized in mass-market silverplate during the mid-to-late 20th century.
Pattern: Unspecified minimalist pattern; characterized by a flared tulip bowl, slender stem, and simple incised double-line rim decoration.
Type
Hollowware (Stemware, Wine Goblet)
Maker
Unknown manufacturer; likely an American or European commercial silver company such as Sheridan, Leonard, or F.B. Rogers, commonly specialized in mass-market silverplate during the mid-to-late 20th century.
Material
Silverplate over base metal (likely brass, copper, or nickel silver). The yellow tint visible in areas of heavy wear and the specific type of tarnish are indicative of an Electroplated Nickel Silver (EPNS) construction.
Dimensions
Estimated height: 16–18 cm (6.5–7 inches); Diameter: 7 cm (2.75 inches). Weight: Estimated 200–250 grams. This is a standard individual wine goblet size.
Description
This is a classic silverplated wine goblet featuring a minimalist tulip-shaped bowl and a long, elegant stem. The design is characterized by its simplicity, with the only ornamentation being two fine lines etched around the rim. While not made of solid sterling silver, its weight and reflective surface provide a sense of formality for dining. Such pieces were popular as wedding gifts or part of large banquet sets during the latter half of the 20th century.
Key Features
Incised double-line rim detail; seamless tulip-shaped bowl; long slender tapered stem; yellowish underlying hue in worn areas indicating plate metal.
Material & Composition
Silverplate over base metal (likely brass, copper, or nickel silver). The yellow tint visible in areas of heavy wear and the specific type of tarnish are indicative of an Electroplated Nickel Silver (EPNS) construction.
Finish & Decoration
Polished silver finish with minimalist decoration featuring two parallel incised horizontal lines around the upper rim. The style is strictly utilitarian and modern, leaning toward the Mid-Century aesthetic.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None visible in the image. Typically, such pieces are stamped 'Silverplate' or 'EPNS' on the underside of the base, occasionally accompanied by a maker's mark or symbol. The lack of visible hallmarks on the body suggests it is a commercial-grade silverplated item.
Construction Details
Likely a three-piece construction consisting of a machine-spun bowl, a cast or drawn stem, and a stamped base, joined by silver soldering at the junctions. Machine-manufactured for mass production.
Functional Features
Tapered bowl designed to concentrate wine aromatics; weighted base for stability; flared rim for easy pouring/sipping.
Handle & Grip Details
Slender, smooth integrated stem with a subtle flare at the base and bowl joinery. The metal is smooth without knurls or texture, designed for a formal two-finger hold.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard commercial craftsmanship. Symmetric and well-proportioned, but shows evidence of mass-production such as visible solder seams (if inspected closely) and machine-turning marks.
Authentication Indicators
The absence of a Lion Passant or '925' mark on the bowl or stem strongly indicates silverplate. The 'soft' appearance of the scratches is typical of electroplated surfaces.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely USA, England, or India. This specific form was produced globally by various silverplating workshops for department store distribution.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern to late 20th Century (1960s–1980s). The sleek, unadorned silhouette is a departure from ornate Victorian or Rococo styles.
Age Estimate
Circa 1970–1990. The silhouette and the condition of the plating are consistent with late 20th-century production.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of luxury in the mid-20th century, where silverplated wares allowed middle-class households to emulate the high-society 'silver service' aesthetic at a fraction of the cost.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Visible surface scratches, heavy tarnish, and 'pitting.' There are signs of 'plate loss' or 'bleeding' where the base metal is beginning to show through the silver layer due to over-polishing or age.
Value Estimate
$5.00 – $15.00 USD per individual piece. Value is primarily decorative/functional rather than for metal content.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild silver cream (e.g., Wright's) and a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive sponges which will strip the thin silver layer. Store in a tarnish-resistant bag or chest to prevent oxidation.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany & Co. Sterling Goblets (heavier, hallmarked, much more valuable); Leonard Silverplated stemware (similar quality and mass-produced); Reed & Barton silverplate series.
Interesting Facts
Silverplated goblets like this were once staples of formal dining sets because they keep white wine chilled longer than glass due to the thermal conductivity of the metal.