Modernist Plain Sterling Silver Cylinder Vase / Tube Form
Hollowware (Decorative Vase / Bud Vase) · Unknown Manufacturer (Generic Modernist Style)
Pattern: Minimalist Cylindrical; 20th Century Plain Pattern
Type
Hollowware (Decorative Vase / Bud Vase)
Maker
Unknown Manufacturer (Generic Modernist Style)
Material
Likely Sterling Silver (.925) or high-quality silver plate over base metal. Requires hallmark verification.
Dimensions
Estimated 2.0-3.0 inches in diameter; 8.0-12.0 inches in height. Weight approximately 300-500 grams if solid sterling.
Description
A striking and minimalist silver cylinder, this piece emphasizes form and material over ornament. The highly reflective surface creates a vertical play of light, making it a perfect example of late 20th-century functional art.
Key Features
Perfect cylindrical symmetry, mirror-reflective surface, seamless vertical transition, and absence of foot or rim detailing.
Material & Composition
Likely Sterling Silver (.925) or high-quality silver plate over base metal. Requires hallmark verification.
Finish & Decoration
Mirror-polished high-shine finish with no ornamental decoration, engraving, or chasing. Typifies the International Style or Modernist aesthetic.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not visible in image; typically located on the underside of the base or near the bottom rim.
Construction Details
Likely machine-spun or extruded tubing with a soldered base plate. Seamless appearance suggests modern industrial manufacturing techniques.
Functional Features
Open cylindrical top for floral arrangement; weighted or flat-bottomed for stability; water-tight solder joints.
Handle & Grip Details
None; sleek handle-less design meant for direct handling of the body.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial craftsmanship. The lack of visible seams indicates a high level of polishing and expert soldering of the base.
Authentication Indicators
Uniformity of the curve and reflection indicates professional machine finishing. Authenticity depends on the 'Sterling' or Silverplate stamp on the base.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely North American (USA) or Scandinavian (Denmark/Sweden) where the minimalist silver movement was most prominent.
Era & Period
Mid-to-Late 20th Century Modern (c. 1960-1990); defined by geometric simplicity and lack of ornamentation.
Age Estimate
Circa 1970-1980 based on the industrial tubular aesthetic and high-gloss polish.
Cultural Significance
Represents the shift toward 'Machine Age' aesthetics where the quality of the metal itself is the primary decorative element.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good. Visible fine surface scratches (swirl marks) consistent with handling and improper cleaning. No significant dents or deep gouges visible.
Value Estimate
$200-$450 if Sterling Silver (based on weight); $40-$80 if Silver-plated.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid abrasive cleaners. Use a high-quality silver cream like Wright's and a microfiber cloth to prevent the visible swirl scratches seen in the image. Store in tarnish-resistant cloth.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany & Co. '1837' Cylinder Vase; Georg Jensen 'Modern' line; hotel-quality silver-plated bud vases (usually heavier and thicker-walled).
Interesting Facts
Cylindrical vases of this type became popular during the 1960s as a reaction against the ornate repoussé work of the Victorian and Edwardian eras.