Hammered Aluminum Grape Motif Fruit Bowl
Decorative art, serving vessel • Anonymous American manufacturer (In the style of Continental Silver Co. or Wendell August Forge)
Style & Movement
Mid-Century Americana / Depression Era Decorative Art
Medium & Technique
Hand-hammered and stamped aluminum; features mechanical spinning marks and embossed grapevine decoration
Creation Period
Mid-20th Century (Circa 1940-1960)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 12 inches in diameter; circular tondo format
Subject Description
A circular flared bowl featuring a recurring repoussé-style motif of grape clusters and leaves around the inner rim. The center shows concentric circles from the lathe-spinning process.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good; functional but shows significant signs of age and heavy use
Estimated Market Value
$15 - $35 USD
Auction Estimate
$10 - $25 USD
Provenance History
Likely a mass-marketed domestic item from the mid-20th century; current yellow price tag suggests recent acquisition at a thrift store or estate sale
Art Historical Significance
Representative of the popularity of hammered aluminum giftware in mid-century America as an affordable, durable alternative to silver during and after WWII
Notable Features
Distinctive 'chattered' texture on the grape leaves and a visible yellow inventory/price sticker (12 02 299)
Condition Issues
Significant surface scratching, oxidation, pitting in the center, and adhesive residue from a contemporary price tag
Conservation Recommendations
Non-abrasive cleaning with mild soap; avoid acidic foods which can pit aluminum; remove adhesive residue with specialized solvent and buff with a soft cloth