Neoclassical style trumpet bud vase with griffin handles
Decorative art, metalwork vase • Likely American or European commercial manufacturer; possibly in the style of Middletown Plate Co. or Meriden Britannia Company
Style & Movement
Neoclassical Revival / Beaux-Arts, incorporating Victorian eclectic motifs
Medium & Technique
Silverplate or pewter with cast decorative elements and spun metal body; features bead-and-reel rim detail and stylized griffin/mythological bird handles
Creation Period
Late 19th to early 20th century (approximately 1890-1920)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 8 to 10 inches in height; vertical format with a diameter of roughly 4 inches at the base and rim
Subject Description
A slender trumpet-shaped bud vase supported by a wide circular base. The central stem is flanked by two ornamental handles shaped like stylized griffins or avian creatures, reflecting a fascination with classical antiquity and mythological symbolism typical of the late 19th-century domestic aesthetic.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good; significant surface oxidation, tarnish, and evidence of wear to the plating
Estimated Market Value
$40 - $120 USD
Auction Estimate
$30 - $75 USD
Provenance History
Unknown; likely a mass-produced domestic item from the turn of the century, typical of middle-class household decor in the United States or Western Europe
Art Historical Significance
Represents the democratization of luxury during the late Industrial Revolution, where silver-plated hollowware allowed middle-class families to display classically-inspired art objects that mimicked solid sterling silver expensive imports.
Notable Features
Distinctive zoomorphic handles and a beaded rim; the 'trumpet' flare and weighted base are characteristic of 'weighted' sterling or high-quality plated ware of the period.
Condition Issues
Extensive tarnish and atmospheric oxidation (blackening); potential 'bleeding' where the silver plate has worn through to expose the base metal (likely copper or white metal); minor surface scratches and pitting
Conservation Recommendations
Gentle cleaning with a non-abrasive silver polish and a soft cloth; avoid harsh immersion dips which can damage the joints of cast elements; keep in a low-humidity environment to prevent further corrosion
Collector Notes
Antique silver vase