Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a striking mid-century copper ice bucket featuring classic brass lion-head ring handles and a insulated white plastic collar. The underside bears the distinct circular maker's mark of Sherwood Guild, a notable Massachusetts metalware producer active during the post-war entertaining boom.
Story
During the 1950s, the home bar became the center of American social life. This copper bucket was designed to bring a touch of regal Hollywood Regency style to suburban cocktail parties, keeping ice cold while gleaming under living room lights.
Maker / Origin
Sherwood Guild operated out of Taunton, Massachusetts—a city historically nicknamed the 'Silver City' due to its dense concentration of silversmiths and metalworking factories. Sherwood Guild carved out a niche by producing high-quality, decorative copper and brass wares that combined traditional New England craftsmanship with modern post-war designs.
Condition & Value
The copper exterior shows a warm, reflective luster with minor surface scratches and light oxidation consistent with age. The brass lion handles show a nice natural patina, and the plastic collar appears intact without major cracking.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.