Mid-Century Silver Plated Globe-Form Ice Bucket or Tureen
Hollowware (Ice Bucket / Serving Vessel) · Unknown manufacturer; possibly an American or European mid-tier producer of plated hollowware like Sheridan, Leonard, or potentially a vintage Italian chrome/silver-plate manufacturer.
Pattern: Generic Mid-Century Modern Spherical Design; popular c. 1960s-1970s.
Type
Hollowware (Ice Bucket / Serving Vessel)
Maker
Unknown manufacturer; possibly an American or European mid-tier producer of plated hollowware like Sheridan, Leonard, or potentially a vintage Italian chrome/silver-plate manufacturer.
Material
Silver plate over a base metal (likely brass or copper), possibly featuring a glass or plastic thermal liner (not fully visible).
Dimensions
Estimated 8-10 inches in diameter; weight is likely substantial due to base metal and potential thermal insulation, approximately 1-2 kilograms.
Description
A striking example of Mid-Century Modern barware, this spherical vessel serves as a bold center-piece. Mirroring the 'Space Age' obsession with planetary forms, its highly reflective surface creates a fish-eye distortion of its surroundings. The minimalist aesthetic emphasizes form over ornamentation, making it a perfect fit for a modern bar or dining room.
Key Features
Perfectly spherical 'globe' form, mirror-finish plating, and tripod-style peg feet.
Material & Composition
Silver plate over a base metal (likely brass or copper), possibly featuring a glass or plastic thermal liner (not fully visible).
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish with minimal decoration; features simple applied spherical or knob-style hardware/feet in the Bauhaus or Space Age style.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No hallmarks are clearly visible in the provided image; typical marks for this style would be 'Silverplate', 'EPNS', or a manufacturer's numerical stamp on the underside of the base.
Construction Details
Machine-spun spherical body with applied cast legs and hardware; joined via industrial soldering or threaded fasteners.
Functional Features
Spherical body designed for thermal retention; likely features a removable lid (indicated by the seam) and a stable tripod or quadrupod base.
Handle & Grip Details
Features small, cast metal knob-style grips or feet; likely solid metal with silver-plate finish to match the body.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial quality; focuses on the precision of the spun metal sphere rather than hand-chased artistry.
Authentication Indicators
The reflection shows modern objects (phone, clothing), confirming it is a reflective metallic surface. Construction lacks the dovetailing or planishing marks of antique solid silver.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely USA or Western Europe (Italy/England); mass-produced during the height of the mid-century cocktail culture.
Era & Period
Space Age / Mid-Century Modern (c. 1960-1975); characterized by aerodynamic and planetary geometric shapes.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960-1970 based on the spherical 'Atomic' design language.
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-WWII shift in silver design from traditional floral motifs to 'machine-age' geometric purity and the rise of home entertaining.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. The image shows significant surface 'fogging' or oxidation, light localized pitting, and extensive smudging. Requires professional polishing to restore the mirror luster.
Value Estimate
$40 - $125 USD depending on the manufacturer noted on the base and the presence of an interior liner.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with mild soapy water first to remove grease; use a non-abrasive silver cream like Wright's. Avoid 'dips' which can damage the thin plating.
Similar Pieces
Kutani Crane silver-plate globe jars, West Bend 'Penguin' hot/cold servers, and Italian chrome 'Orbit' buckets.
Interesting Facts
Spherical ice buckets became iconic symbols of the 'Atomic Age' bar, often designed to look like the Sputnik satellite or celestial bodies.