Mid-Century Modern Sterling Silver Revere-Style Low Bowl
Hollowware (Bowl / Nut Dish) · Unknown American or European Silversmith; the minimalist design is characteristic of companies like Gorham, Tiffany & Co, or Georg Jensen, though hallmarks are not visible in the image.
Pattern: Minimalist High-Polish Round Pattern; generic mid-20th-century design based on Colonial Revere forms but modernized with straight walls.
Type
Hollowware (Bowl / Nut Dish)
Maker
Unknown American or European Silversmith; the minimalist design is characteristic of companies like Gorham, Tiffany & Co, or Georg Jensen, though hallmarks are not visible in the image.
Material
Likely Sterling Silver (.925 purity) based on the luster and color. It appears to be solid metal rather than silver plate, given the lack of base metal bleed at the rim.
Dimensions
Estimated 4-5 inches in diameter and 2.5 inches in height. Expected weight range is 150-250 grams based on typical gauge for this size of hollowware.
Description
A sleek and sophisticated silver bowl featuring a deep cylindrical body that flares subtly toward the base. This piece represents the evolution of the classic Revere bowl into a more modern, architectural form. The reflective surface is designed to play with light and shadow, making it a versatile addition to both traditional and contemporary interiors.
Key Features
Mirror-polished finish, straight vertical walls, seamless transition from side to bottom, and a lack of decorative borders or monograms.
Material & Composition
Likely Sterling Silver (.925 purity) based on the luster and color. It appears to be solid metal rather than silver plate, given the lack of base metal bleed at the rim.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish with a plain, unadorned surface. The design is devoid of engraving or chasing, emphasizing the geometric form and the quality of the silver material.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not visible in image; would typically be found on the underside of the base. Expected marks include 'Sterling', a maker's logo, and potentially a catalog or model number.
Construction Details
Spun or raised construction; the uniform curve at the base suggests it may have been spun on a lathe from a flat silver disk. The rim appears slightly thickened for durability.
Functional Features
Deep-walled bowl suitable for serving nuts, candies, or as a decorative trinket bowl. The flat base provides stability.
Handle & Grip Details
None; handleless design following the minimalist aesthetic.
Craftsmanship Details
Well-executed spinning with no visible tool marks. The symmetry is excellent, and the rim is finished smoothly without Sharp edges, indicating quality manufacturing.
Authentication Indicators
The color and 'softness' of reflections suggest sterling silver rather than stainless steel or chrome. Authentic pieces of this era typically have a thick, heavy feel in the hand.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely United States (New England silver tradition) or Scandinavia. Hand-finished but likely factory-produced using machine-assisted spinning techniques.
Era & Period
Modern / Mid-Century Modern (c. 1950-1970). The lack of ornamentation and clean lines are hallmarks of post-WWII functionalist design.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950s-1970s. The profile and condition suggest a late 20th-century manufacture date.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Modern movement' in silver design, where the beauty of the metal itself was considered superior to applied ornamentation. Such pieces were popular as wedding gifts and corporate awards in the mid-20th century.
Condition Notes
Very Good condition. There are visible surface micro-scratches and fingerprints consistent with handling and light use. No significant dents, deep gouges, or evidence of silver plate wear are visible from this angle.
Value Estimate
$150 - $350 USD depending on the confirmed maker and total weight in troy ounces.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth to remove oils. Use a high-quality silver cream (like Wright's) for polishing. Avoid abrasive sponges which will ruin the mirror finish.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany & Co. 'Padova' bowls or Gorham 'Revere' reproductions. The main difference is usually the weight of the silver used and the specific taper of the walls.
Interesting Facts
The 'Revere' style bowl is an icon of American silver, originally popularized by patriot-silversmith Paul Revere. This modernized version shows how that traditional silhouette was updated for the 20th-century home.