Tiffany Large 'Moderne' Sterling Silver Centerpiece, New York City, c. 1952

Simplicity and grace characterize this stunning and large centerpiece. Inspired by the Danish modern movement, Tiffany's silversmiths made some spectacular silver during the 1950's which was mostly unadorned; relying on its form to create an object of beauty. The saucer-shaped, shallow bowl with turned down rim has four cast and applied feet and a pair of sweeping handles which extend from underneath over the sides of the bowl.

Oscar Riedener, Tiffany's silver designer who would replace Arthur Barney as chief silver designer in 1955, worked in the Scandinavian style and almost certainly designed this piece.

The underside of this wonderful piece is marked 'TIFFANY & CO/ MAKERS/ STERLING SILVER/ 23399/ m'. According to Tiffany Silver by Carpenter, this particular 'm' mark was used from 1947-1955 and this piece was designed c. 1952. It measures 18.5 inches across the handles and 5.5 inches high. The actual bowl is 15.5 inches round by 4.5 inches high. This lovely centerpiece has never been monogrammed, weighs 86.15 troy ounces and is in very good condition.