WMF Silver-Plated Nickel Silver Bowl

This is a base-up view of a metal vessel, likely a small bowl or part of a hollowware set, manufactured by the renowned German firm Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik (WMF). The item is constructed from nickel silver (indicated by the 'NS' mark), which is a copper alloy with nickel and often zinc, and was originally finished with a silver-plate layer. The underside features a prominent stamped hallmark: 'WURTT. METALLW. FABRIK / GEISLINGEN-STEIGE' arranged in arched and straight lines, accompanied by the iconic WMF beehive-style logo. The '0.75' stamp likely refers to the silver plating thickness or a specific production size/volume code. Physically, the item shows a circular, rounded form with a convex bottom. The condition indicates significant age and heavy use; there is extensive surface scratching, heavy tarnish, and 'bleeding' where the silver plating has worn away to reveal the yellowish hue of the nickel silver base metal beneath. This specific style of mark was commonly used from the late 19th century into the Art Nouveau and early 20th-century periods (circa 1880-1920), reflecting the high-quality industrial craftsmanship of the Geislingen-Steige factory. Despite the surface wear, the structural integrity appears sound, and the clear manufacturer stamps preserve its historical and collectible value.

I have examined the digital images of the WMF silver-plated nickel silver bowl. The hallmark 'WURTT. METALLW. FABRIK GEISLINGEN-STEIGE' coupled with the beehive logo confirms the item originated from the Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik factory during the late 19th or early 20th century (c. 1880-1918). While the structural integrity is intact, the condition is fair to poor. There is significant 'bleeding' where the silver plating has been lost, exposing the nickel silver base metal. The '0.75' mark suggests a specific production capacity or silver deposition standard used at the time. The antique silver-plate market is currently dictated by decorative appeal and designer signatures. While WMF is a highly collectible name—particularly their Art Nouveau (Jugendstil) figural pieces—this specific item is a utilitarian hollowware form with significant surface degradation. Comparable pieces in better condition typically command $100-150; however, the heavy wear and lack of elaborate ornamentation reduce its current market value to the $45-75 range. Note that this appraisal is based solely on digital images. A definitive valuation would require an in-person inspection to confirm the metal's weight, check for hidden repairs, and verify the authenticity of the stamp under magnification. Provenance documentation or original catalog listings would further support its historical context. Without a physical acid test or XRF analysis, the exact composition of the 'NS' base remains a professional assumption based on the provided markings.