Mid-Century Modern Seamless Sterling Silver Cylindrical Shaker or Bud Vase
Hollowware/Decorative Object · Indeterminate based on image; likely American Mid-Century (e.g., Gorham, Tiffany, or Jensen-style workshop). The high-polish finish suggests a mid-20th-century manufacturer focused on minimalist modernism.
Pattern: Minimalist Plain / Modernist; possibly a custom workshop piece or a discontinued 1950s production line.
Type
Hollowware/Decorative Object
Maker
Indeterminate based on image; likely American Mid-Century (e.g., Gorham, Tiffany, or Jensen-style workshop). The high-polish finish suggests a mid-20th-century manufacturer focused on minimalist modernism.
Material
Likely Sterling Silver (.925) or high-quality electroplated silver over nickel (EPNS). The image shows a very high-quality mirror finish without base-metal bleed, typical of sterling.
Dimensions
Estimated Length: 15–20 cm (6–8 inches); Estimated Diameter: 2.5–4 cm. Weight would typically range between 120–200 grams if solid sterling.
Description
A striking example of Mid-Century minimalist silver, this piece features a perfectly uniform cylindrical form. Its beauty relies entirely on the quality of the silver and the perfection of its reflective surface, capturing the 'Space Age' obsession with sleek lines and metallic shine.
Key Features
Total absence of ornamentation; seamless vertical profile; deep mirror-like reflection; rounded or flat flush base (presumed).
Material & Composition
Likely Sterling Silver (.925) or high-quality electroplated silver over nickel (EPNS). The image shows a very high-quality mirror finish without base-metal bleed, typical of sterling.
Finish & Decoration
Mirror-polished, high-shine finish with no chasing, engraving, or embossing. This style follows the 'International Modern' aesthetic which emphasizes form over ornament.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not visible in image; would typically be located on the bottom rim or underside. Expected marks include 'Sterling' and a maker's hallmark (e.g., Gorham's lion-anchor-G or Tiffany's 'T' mark).
Construction Details
Spun or drawn seamless tube construction. The lack of visible solder seams suggests a machine-assisted industrial process then hand-polished to a high luster.
Functional Features
Single cylindrical cavity; if hollow throughout, it functions as a bud vase; if weighted with a removable top, it functions as a muffineer or cocktail shaker.
Handle & Grip Details
None; the cylindrical body serves as the primary grip, designed for a sleek, ergonomic hand-feel.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial spinning. The uniformity of the wall thickness and the lack of surface ripples indicate a master polisher was involved in the final finishing stages.
Authentication Indicators
The reflection quality suggests a dense, non-porous metal consistent with sterling. To confirm, one must locate the 'Sterling' or '.925' stamp on the base.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely USA (Providence or New York) or Denmark (Copenhagen). These regions led the production of plain-form silver during the mid-20th century.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (1945–1970). The design language reflects Post-War functionalism and the influence of Scandinavian design motifs.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950–1965. The surface tension and lack of 'planishing' marks indicate automated polishing techniques from this era.
Cultural Significance
Represents the shift from ornate Victorian 'status' silver to the 'less is more' philosophy of the Bauhaus and Scandinavian Modern movements during the 1950s atomic age.
Condition Notes
Very Good/Excellent. The surface shows minor micro-scratching ('spider webbing') consistent with light use and cleaning. No visible dents or deep gouges in the highlighted area.
Value Estimate
$150–$450 USD. Value depends heavily on the maker's mark (e.g., a Tiffany mark would triple this estimate) and the weight of the sterling content.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a high-quality liquid silver polish (e.g., Wright's) and a microfiber cloth. Avoid abrasive sponges which will ruin the mirror finish. Store in a Pacific Silvercloth bag to prevent oxidation.
Similar Pieces
Georg Jensen 'Cylindra' line or Gorham 'Puritan' collection. Competitors would include Allan Adler or Porter Blanchard studio pieces which usually show more hand-hammering.
Interesting Facts
In the 1950s, pieces like this were often sold as 'Executive Gifts' or desk accessories. The lack of a monogram suggests it may have remained in inventory or was part of a larger service set that was never personalized.