Mid-Century Silver-Plated Tea Service with Glass Inserts
Other: Accessory/Dining Service Set · Mid-Century Modern (circa 1950s-1960s). It features clean, curved lines and a functionalist blend of glass and metal common in post-war European and American design. · Likely manufactured by a company like Sheffield, Leonard, or a Scandinavian silver-smithing brand. No visible markings in image, but commonly found on bottom of tray.
Type
Other: Accessory/Dining Service Set
Style Period
Mid-Century Modern (circa 1950s-1960s). It features clean, curved lines and a functionalist blend of glass and metal common in post-war European and American design.
Material
Silver-plated metal (likely over brass or copper) for the tray and cup holders, and clear heat-resistant glass for the fluted inserts.
Age Estimate
Approximately 50-70 years old (circa 1955-1965).
Dimensions
Tray: 12-14 inches diameter; Cups: 3 inches high. Overall height including tray and cups is roughly 4-5 inches.
Origin
Likely American or European (possibly Italian or Swedish), characteristic of mid-century entertaining sets.
Designer/Maker
Likely manufactured by a company like Sheffield, Leonard, or a Scandinavian silver-smithing brand. No visible markings in image, but commonly found on bottom of tray.
Value Estimate
$45 - $85 USD (Retail/Vintage Market). Value is limited by the condition of the plating and the commonality of the design.
Description
An elegant Mid-Century tea or coffee service set featuring six glass cup inserts nestled within silver-plated holders, all arranged on a matching scalloped circular tray. The design epitomizes the 'cocktail culture' of the mid-20th century, where versatility and sleek silhouettes were paramount for domestic entertaining.
Key Features
Removable glass inserts, scalloped edge tray, fluted cup rims, and thin-profile circular handles.
Color & Finish
High-polish silver finish with significant natural oxidation/tarnish showing dark purplish and grey patination. The glass is clear.
Construction Method
Semi-industrial/Machine-made. The glass inserts are mold-blown or pressed, while the metal holders are stamped and soldered. The tray is stamped with a decorative scalloped edge.
Joinery & Craftsmanship
Soldered joints for the handles. The glass sits loosely in the metal sleeves, a standard feature for ease of cleaning.
Wood Grain & Species
None (Metal and glass materials only).
Surface Treatment
Polished silver plating. The tray features a simple raised edge profile. The glass has a slightly flared or fluted rim.
Upholstery Details
None (Glass and Metal construction).
Hardware & Fittings
Thin, looped metal handles soldered to each cup holder. No mechanical hardware or fasteners are present.
Origin & Provenance
Likely American or European (possibly Italian or Swedish), characteristic of mid-century entertaining sets.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. The set is structurally intact but shows significant surface tarnish/oxidation on the silver plating that would require professional polishing to restore original luster.
Interesting Facts
Sets like these were often called 'sherbet sets' or 'punch sets' depending on the size, intended to showcase the color of the liquid while protecting the user's hands from heat.
Cultural Significance
Represents the shift toward informal yet sophisticated home entertaining in the post-war era, moving away from heavy Victorian tea services toward lighter, mixed-material pieces.
Similar Pieces
Distinguished from Victorian sets by the lack of ornate floral engraving, and from Art Deco sets which would favor more geometric, stepped patterns over these soft curves.
Care & Maintenance
Hand wash glass only. Metal should be cleaned with a non-abrasive silver polish and a soft microfiber cloth. Avoid dishwasher use as it will strip the silver plating.
Value Estimate
$45 - $85 USD (Retail/Vintage Market). Value is limited by the condition of the plating and the commonality of the design.
Sustainability Notes
Highly sustainable due to longevity and lack of synthetic plastics; metal and glass are infinitely recyclable materials.