Nambé 'Kup' Collection Sterling Silver and Alloy Salt and Pepper Shakers by Karim Rashid
Hollowware: Salt and Pepper Shaker Set · Nambé, established in 1951 in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Known for their proprietary eight-metal alloy and collaborations with world-class designers like Karim Rashid, a leading figure in contemporary industrial design.
Pattern: 'Kup' Collection (item number 6310), introduced in 2005. Designed by Karim Rashid. Parts of this collection are now discontinued.
Type
Hollowware: Salt and Pepper Shaker Set
Maker
Nambé, established in 1951 in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Known for their proprietary eight-metal alloy and collaborations with world-class designers like Karim Rashid, a leading figure in contemporary industrial design.
Material
Nambé Alloy (a signature lead-free aluminum-based eight-metal alloy). Note: This is not solid sterling silver, but a proprietary metal that mimics the luster of silver and has excellent thermal properties.
Dimensions
Standard size is approximately 5 to 6 inches in height. The weight is characteristic of Nambé alloy, which is heavier than aluminum but lighter than solid leaded crystal or sterling silver.
Description
A striking example of modern functional art, these salt and pepper shakers feature Karim Rashid's signature fluid geometry. Moving away from traditional silver styles, these pieces offer a sleek, futuristic silhouette that bridges the gap between kitchenware and sculpture.
Key Features
Unique organic 'Kup' shape; signature Karim Rashid branding; proprietary Nambé alloy that does not tarnish like silver but retains a silver-like polish.
Material & Composition
Nambé Alloy (a signature lead-free aluminum-based eight-metal alloy). Note: This is not solid sterling silver, but a proprietary metal that mimics the luster of silver and has excellent thermal properties.
Finish & Decoration
Polished high-gloss mirror finish. The design follows the 'Sensual Minimalism' style typical of Karim Rashid, featuring organic, fluid curves with no applied ornamentation or engraving.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Laser-etched or stamped on bottom: 'nambé', model number '6310', copyright '© 2005', and the designer's name 'Karim Rashid'. No silver purity marks (like 925) are present as this is a non-precious alloy.
Construction Details
Cast using the sand-casting method and then hand-polished to a brilliant shine. The pieces are solid-walled and engineered for durability.
Functional Features
Tapered cylindrical forms designed for ergonomic gripping; bottom-fill design typically involving a plastic or rubber stopper (visible implicitly via the base construction).
Handle & Grip Details
N/A; the body of the shaker serves as the grip. The smooth, seamless surface is designed for comfort and aesthetic flow.
Craftsmanship Details
Evidence of machine casting followed by intensive hand-buffing. The seamless transition from the side wall to the base indicates high-quality finishing typical of the brand's mid-luxury tier.
Authentication Indicators
The etched branding is consistent with authentic Nambé production from the mid-2000s. The font and spacing of the Rashid signature match known examples.
Origin & Manufacturing
Nambé studios, headquartered in Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA. While design happens in the US, manufacturing is conducted in specialized workshops to Nambé's exacting heat-retention standards.
Era & Period
Contemporary/Modernist (21st Century). It reflects the 'Digital Nature' and organic minimalism prevalent in design during the early 2000s.
Age Estimate
Dated 2005 based on the stamp; likely produced between 2005 and 2015.
Cultural Significance
Represents the shift in mid-2000s luxury goods from traditional precious metals to high-performance designer alloys. It marks the 'democratization of design' where high-end art enters the everyday dining room.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. The image shows significant surface scratching and 'pitting' or oxidation typical of Nambé metal when exposed to salt for long periods without cleaning. Scratches suggest heavy abrasive cleaning or shelf wear.
Value Estimate
$25 - $55 USD on the secondary market depending on polish. Original retail was significantly higher, but the scratched condition seen in the photo limits the premium.
Care & Maintenance
Hand wash with mild detergent; dry immediately. Do not use in dishwasher. To restore shine, use Nambé Polish. Avoid leaving salt inside for extended storage as it can corrode the alloy.
Similar Pieces
Nambé 'Kissing' Shakers (also by Rashid); Georg Jensen 'Cobra' shakers (Steel); Vera Wang for Wedgwood 'Infinity' shakers (Silver Plate).
Interesting Facts
Karim Rashid has over 3,000 designs in production and has won over 300 awards. Nambé alloy is so efficient at temperature retention that it can be put in the freezer to keep food cold or in the oven to keep it hot.