Modernist Sterling Silver Taper Candlestick or Narrow Vase Stem
Hollowware / Decorative Object (Candlestick or Bud Vase) · Unidentified Modernist Silversmith (likely Scandinavian or American Workshop)
Pattern: Mid-Century Modern Minimalist
Type
Hollowware / Decorative Object (Candlestick or Bud Vase)
Maker
Unidentified Modernist Silversmith (likely Scandinavian or American Workshop)
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) with unknown base weighting
Dimensions
Estimated diameter 1.5-2.0cm; height unknown; weight likely influenced by internal ballast
Description
A sleek, modernist silver cylinder showcasing the post-war era's obsession with functionalism and pure geometry. The item features a perfectly smooth surface designed to rely on light reflections rather than applied ornament for visual interest.
Key Features
Seamless construction, ultra-minimalist profile, and a high-chrome-like silver luster
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) with unknown base weighting
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish, cylindrical form, undecorated minimalist style
Hallmarks & Stamps
Marks not visible in provided image; would typically be located on the underside of the base or near the foot rim
Construction Details
Machine-spun or drawn seamless tubing with high-velocity machine polishing
Functional Features
Uniform cylindrical shaft designed to hold a standard taper candle or a single floral stem
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable (non-handled vertical stem)
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial finishing; the absence of visible seams indicates a high-pressure drawing process
Authentication Indicators
Metal color and reflectivity are consistent with high-grade sterling silver; uniform wall thickness suggests industrial manufacturing
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely Denmark or USA; characteristic of post-war industrial silver design
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (c. 1950-1970)
Age Estimate
c. 1960s based on the streamlined silhouette and high-mirror polish
Cultural Significance
Reflects the shift in the 20th century from silver as a symbol of ornate heritage to silver as a medium for architectural minimalism
Condition Notes
Good condition; visible surface micro-scratching (swirl marks) and small nicks near the top edge consistent with use
Value Estimate
$75 - $150 USD depending on the maker's mark and the presence of a matching pair
Care & Maintenance
Gentle hand-polishing with a soft micro-fiber cloth and non-abrasive cream like Wright's Silver Cream to avoid deepening scratches
Similar Pieces
Tiffany & Co. 'Bamboo' line or Georg Jensen 'Cypress', though this piece is significantly more reductive
Interesting Facts
This style was popularized by designers like Georg Jensen and Hans Jensen to make silver feel contemporary in the space-age era