Tiffany & Co. Sterling Silver Nut Bowl, Pattern No. 18941
Hollowware (Nut or Candy Bowl) · Tiffany & Co., founded in 1837 in New York City. The firm is globally renowned as America's premier house of silver and jewelry, known for rigorous quality standards and exceptional design.
Pattern: Simple Modernist Style, Pattern No. 18941. This is a classic, minimalist design from the early 20th century, typically part of their high-end functional hollowware line.
Type
Hollowware (Nut or Candy Bowl)
Maker
Tiffany & Co., founded in 1837 in New York City. The firm is globally renowned as America's premier house of silver and jewelry, known for rigorous quality standards and exceptional design.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). The base is solid sterling silver as indicated by the 'Sterling Silver 925-1000' stamp.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter of 5-6 inches; height approximately 1.5 inches. Typical weight for this form is between 120-180 grams (approx. 4-6 troy oz).
Description
An elegant and substantial sterling silver nut bowl by Tiffany & Co. featuring a timeless, minimalist silhouette. The piece relies on the quality of the metal and the precision of its proportions rather than applied ornament. The reflecting surfaces and central monogram provide a classic American aesthetic associated with high-society dining of the early 1900s.
Key Features
The presence of the '925-1000' stamp alongside the 'M' date letter; the distinct 18941 pattern number; and the crisp, deep engraving of the Tiffany trademarks.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). The base is solid sterling silver as indicated by the 'Sterling Silver 925-1000' stamp.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish with a subtle reed edge. It features a central circular depression and a script monogram (appears to be 'MK' or 'HB') professionally engraved in the center well. The style is Transitional/Early Modernist.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'TIFFANY & Co / 18941 MAKERS 3605 / STERLING SILVER / 925-1000 / M'. The 'M' date letter signifies the directorship of John C. Moore II (1907-1947). 18941 is the pattern number; 3605 is the order number.
Construction Details
Machine-spun from a heavy-gauge silver sheet with a rolled rim. The hallmarks are die-struck. It exhibits the high-quality, uniform wall thickness characteristic of Tiffany manufacturing.
Functional Features
Single-well design with a wide, shallow flange. Designed as a cocktail nut bowl, candy dish, or 'finger bowl' companion. The raised center well prevents contents from shifting excessively.
Handle & Grip Details
No handles or grips; simple rimmed bowl design meant to be lifted by the flange or base.
Craftsmanship Details
Exceptional finishing; despite being a production piece, the polish and rim rolling show no tool marks, indicating superior quality control typical of the Moore era at Tiffany.
Authentication Indicators
The hallmark alignment and font are consistent with genuine Tiffany production from the Moore period. The wear pattern on the base rim is appropriate for 100 years of use.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States, New York City. Manufactured at Tiffany’s specialized silver workshop in Newark, New Jersey, which operated during this period.
Era & Period
Early 20th Century (approx. 1907-1947). This period reflects a shift from Victorian ornamentation toward the cleaner lines of the Arts & Crafts and Art Deco eras.
Age Estimate
Circa 1915-1930. While the 'M' mark spans 1907-1947, the pattern number 18941 was first introduced around 1915.
Cultural Significance
Represents the formalization of American cocktail and dinner service culture, where specific vessels were designated for every course, reflecting the owner's status and adherence to etiquette.
Condition Notes
Very Good condition. Surface shows fine 'use scratches' consistent with age. Slight tarnish in the crevices of the monogram. No visible deep dents or structural repairs. The rim appears true.
Value Estimate
$250 - $450 USD. Range depends on weight and current silver spot prices; Tiffany brand premium adds significantly to the intrinsic melt value.
Care & Maintenance
Polish with a high-quality cream like Wright's Silver Cream using a soft cotton cloth. Hand wash only in warm, soapy water. Store in a Pacific Silvercloth bag to prevent oxidation.
Similar Pieces
Similar to Gorham or Reed & Barton Revere bowls, but distinguished by Tiffany's flatter flange profile and proprietary pattern numbering system.
Interesting Facts
The 'M' mark on Tiffany silver is highly sought after as it represents the peak era of the company's silver manufacturing and their expansion into the most prestigious homes in America.