Aesthetic Silver-Plated Bowl or Jeroboam Wine Coaster Fish & Net Motif, C. 1880s

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Description

American Victorian Aesthetic Movement Silver-Plated Bowl or Jeroboam Wine Coaster with Fish & Net Motif

Hartford Silver Plate Company, Connecticut, … Read more American Victorian Aesthetic Movement Silver-Plated Bowl or Jeroboam Wine Coaster with Fish & Net Motif

Hartford Silver Plate Company, Connecticut, circa 1880

Dimensions: 7” diameter x 3” high (5.5” inner diameter)

A striking and unusual example of American silver-plated design from the late 19th century, this bowl or large-scale wine coaster (suitable for a Jeroboam or magnum) embodies the Aesthetic Movement’s Japonisme influence, with its asymmetrical naturalistic detail and tactile surface decoration.

The gently lobed rim features a delicate gadroon edge, while the side is decorated in relief with a pair of finely detailed fish caught in a raised, applied net—a rare and dynamic design motif associated with themes of nature, transience, and restraint, which echoed Japanese artistic influence on Western decorative arts during the Victorian period.

Produced by the Hartford Silver Plate Company of Connecticut, the piece is marked with the firm’s circular trademark and pattern number 1859. The interior has a soft gilt wash, and the overall form is both functional and sculptural—ideal for use or display.

The condition is good, with light surface wear, small areas of plate loss, and expected age-appropriate tarnish to one side—all consistent with antique silverplate and not distracting from the bold decorative presence.

A rare and collectible example of American Aesthetic silver, perfect for collectors of 19th-century design, nautical themes, or transitional Victorian silver. See less