Preliminary identification

Mid-Century Modern Silver-Plated Ice Lip Pitcher

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

A classic 'ice lip' water pitcher featuring a bulbous body, a cylindrical neck, and a functional guard across the spout.

Story

The 'ice lip' pitcher was the unsung hero of the mid-century American dinner party, engineered specifically to solve the messy problem of ice cubes splashing into a guest's glass.

Maker / Origin

While the specific maker's mark isn't visible, this style was perfected by American silver giants who transformed the domestic landscape by making high-quality silver plate accessible to the growing middle class.

Condition & Value

The surface appears highly reflective and well-maintained, suggesting the silver plating is largely intact. There are minor surface scratches consistent with age and use. If the plating shows 'bleeding' (where the base metal shows through), the value would be at the lower end of the range. Excellent condition commands a premium.

Full Research

See what it's actually worth.

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.

Market Analysis

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.

Value Drivers

  • Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • Better-than-average condition for the category
  • Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps

Regional auction

· Jun 2024

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

$1,280

SOLD

Dealer archive

· Mar 2024

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

$1,450

SOLD

Marketplace sale

· Jan 2024

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

$980

SOLD

Estate platform

· Oct 2023

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

$1,150

SOLD

Auction result

· Aug 2023

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.

$1,375

SOLD