1920s Patinated Silvered Veined Metal Serving Bowl by Wiener Werkstätte, Austria

By: Wiener Werkstätte, Josef Hoffmann
Material: metal, silver plate, silver
Technique: cast, molded, silvered, plated, polished, metalwork, patinated
Dimensions: 13.5 in x 5 in
Date: early 20th century, circa 1920
Style: Vienna Secession, Jugendstil, Art Nouveau
Place of origin: Austria

A striking serving bowl that exemplifies the refined aesthetics of the Vienna Secession movement. Crafted circa 1920 by Josef Hoffmann and the Wiener Werkstätte, it showcases a harmonious blend of form and function. The bowl’s scalloped rim gracefully undulates, creating a petal-like silhouette that adds visual interest. Its body features an organic, veined pattern reminiscent of natural textures, achieved through a meticulous patination process on the silvered metal surface. The footed base provides stability and elevates the piece, enhancing its presence as a centerpiece. The manufacturer’s mark is discreetly located along the rim of the bowl.

Josef Hoffmann, a pivotal figure in early 20th-century design, co-founded the Wiener Werkstätte in 1903. This collaborative workshop sought to elevate everyday objects to works of art, embodying the principles of the Vienna Secession. Hoffmann’s designs, characterized by geometric simplicity and attention to craftsmanship, significantly influenced the development of modern design. Wiener Werkstätte’s emphasis on quality materials and skilled artisanship is evident in this bowl’s construction and finish. Their work bridged the gap between Art Nouveau and modernism, contributing to a distinctive Austrian aesthetic that resonated throughout Europe and beyond.