Mid-Century Modern Hand-Hammered Sterling Silver Bowl
Hollowware (Bowl) · Likely American or Scandinavian Modernist Maker (e.g., Gorham, Allan Adler, or Georg Jensen school)
Pattern: Hand-hammered Modernist motif, c. 1950s-1970s
Type
Hollowware (Bowl)
Maker
Likely American or Scandinavian Modernist Maker (e.g., Gorham, Allan Adler, or Georg Jensen school)
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) or possibly .950 high-purity silver; solid composition without weighting.
Dimensions
Estimated 8-10 inches in diameter; weight likely between 300-600 grams depending on gauge.
Description
A striking example of Mid-Century Modern hollowware, this bowl features a brilliant mirror-polished finish juxtaposed with the organic texture of hand-hammered planishing. The minimalist form emphasizes the inherent luster of the silver.
Key Features
Hand-hammered surface texture (planishing), deep mirror finish, seamless construction without soldered rims.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) or possibly .950 high-purity silver; solid composition without weighting.
Finish & Decoration
Polished mirror finish on the interior with distinct planishing marks (hammering) visible in reflections, indicative of the Arts & Crafts or Mid-Century Modern aesthetic.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Marks not visible in photo; typically found on the base, likely including 'STERLING' or a fineness number (.925) and a maker's mark.
Construction Details
Raised and hand-hammered from a single flat sheet of silver; evidenced by the subtle facets in the metal's surface.
Functional Features
Open vessel design for fruit or decorative display; smooth rolled or softened edge for safety and handling.
Handle & Grip Details
None; footless or low-profile integrated base design characteristic of minimalist modernism.
Craftsmanship Details
Superior craftsmanship visible in the even distribution of hammer marks, which requires high skill to maintain symmetry while shaping the metal.
Authentication Indicators
The irregularity of the 'hammered' facets suggests authentic hand-wrought work rather than a machine-stamped pattern.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely United States or Denmark, where the tradition of hand-hammered silver flourished during the 20th century.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (1945-1970). The design focuses on form and material rather than applied ornamentation.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1965 based on the style of hammering and the clean, rimless silhouette.
Cultural Significance
Represents the shift toward functionalism and organic minimalism in post-war domestic design.
Condition Notes
Good condition with visible surface scratches and light tarnish consistent with use. No major dents observed in this section.
Value Estimate
$400 - $1,200 depending on the specific maker's mark and total weight in troy ounces.
Care & Maintenance
Hand polish with a high-quality silver cream like Wright's; avoid abrasive pads which will dull the hammered facets.
Similar Pieces
Georg Jensen 'Vivianna' line (smoother, no hammering) or Allan Adler hand-wrought pieces (similar facets).
Interesting Facts
Hand-hammered silver became a symbol of 'honesty in craft' during the Arts and Crafts movement, a philosophy that carried over into high-end modernist silver design.