Cocktail Shaker with Etched Rooster Glass Body and Silver-Plated Hardware
Hollowware (Cocktail Shaker) · Unmarked manufacturer, likely American or British silver-plate producer from the mid-20th century, common among makers producing barware novelties.
Pattern: Etched Barware / Rooster Motif
Type
Hollowware (Cocktail Shaker)
Maker
Unmarked manufacturer, likely American or British silver-plate producer from the mid-20th century, common among makers producing barware novelties.
Material
Electroplated Nickel Silver (EPNS) hardware combined with a molded and acid-etched clear glass body.
Dimensions
Estimated height of approximately 20-24 cm (8-9.5 inches) and a standard capacity of around 750 ml (24-28 oz). Weight is moderate, dominated by the heavy-bottomed glass cylinder.
Description
An attractive and highly collectible mid-century cocktail shaker pairing a clear glass body with gleaming silver-plated hardware. The glass is delightfully decorated with an etched silhouette of a proud rooster, a popular motif for home bars and kitchen-adjacent entertaining during the mid-20th century. The silver-plated top assembly includes a secure pouring spout and a fitted cap with a convenient side ring handle, accented by a decorative beaded band around the collar.
Key Features
Combination of clear etched glass and silver-plated metal, whimsical rooster motif, integrated pouring spout with cap, and mid-century barware charm.
Material & Composition
Electroplated Nickel Silver (EPNS) hardware combined with a molded and acid-etched clear glass body.
Finish & Decoration
Mirror polish on the silver-plated metal components featuring a beaded/rope trim border at the collar. The glass body features an acid-etched or sandblasted silhouette of a rooster. Style exhibits Mid-Century Modern barware aesthetics.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not clearly visible in the image, likely stamped on the interior rim or underside of the metal cap with standard EPNS or silver-plate manufacturer marks.
Construction Details
Machine-molded glass body with sandblasted/etched decoration. Metal components consist of spun or stamped silver-plated brass or nickel silver fitted with a threaded or friction-fit collar and a pouring spout lid.
Functional Features
Designed as a cocktail shaker featuring an integrated pouring spout with a cap and a small handle loop on the lid for easy removal. The wide glass body allows for easy mixing and viewing of the cocktail contents.
Handle & Grip Details
Features a small loop handle attached to the metal top cap, constructed of matching silver-plated metal.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard commercial mid-century production quality with clean glass etching, well-fitted metal collars, and functional mechanical joints typical of mass-produced yet stylish bar accessories.
Authentication Indicators
Authentic period construction featuring typical weight, glass molding techniques, and silver-plated brass hardware consistent with mid-century bar accessories.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely United States or Great Britain, produced during the height of the cocktail shaker popularity in the mid-20th century.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (1945-1970), reflecting the post-WWII cocktail culture boom in America.
Age Estimate
Circa 1940s-1960s based on the form, glass etching style, and popularity of novelty barware.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the post-war American cultural shift toward home entertaining, cocktail parties, and specialized barware accessories.
Condition Notes
The silver-plated components show moderate tarnish with iridescent sulfide toning. The glass body appears clean with minimal surface wear. Overall condition is very good, showing typical age-related patina.
Value Estimate
Estimated market value ranges between $50 to $150 USD depending on the specific maker's mark, overall condition, and collector demand for vintage barware.
Care & Maintenance
Wash glass body by hand with warm soapy water. Polish silver-plated components gently with a specialized silver cream such as Wright's, avoiding abrasive pads to protect the plating.
Similar Pieces
Napier barware shakers, Hazel Atlas glass shakers with metal tops, and various vintage EPNS cocktail shakers with animal or nautical etchings.
Interesting Facts
Rooster and poultry motifs were exceptionally popular in mid-century kitchen and barware design, symbolizing hospitality, farm-to-table freshness, and rustic elegance.