Vintage Decorative Brass or Gold-Plated Scalloped Footed Bowl
Decorative Bowl / Hollowware · Yellow Gold finish. The hue is a brassy, pale yellow consistent with low-karat plating or high-zinc brass alloys.
Purity: Likely Non-Solid/Gold-Plated. The greenish oxidation and surface wear strongly suggest a brass base with potential thin gold electroplating or a lacquered gold-tone finish. It does not exhibit the characteristics of solid 10K-24K gold.
Type
Decorative Bowl / Hollowware
Purity
Likely Non-Solid/Gold-Plated. The greenish oxidation and surface wear strongly suggest a brass base with potential thin gold electroplating or a lacquered gold-tone finish. It does not exhibit the characteristics of solid 10K-24K gold.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold finish. The hue is a brassy, pale yellow consistent with low-karat plating or high-zinc brass alloys.
Weight
350 - 600 grams. Estimated for a mid-sized decorative metal vessel of this thickness.
Description
An elegant, vintage-style footed bowl featuring a scalloped rim design. The exterior displays a metallic yellow luster with a heavy developing patina. This piece serves as a classic example of mid-century decorative metalwork, designed to evoke the opulence of solid gold while being accessible for domestic use.
Key Features
Scalloped 'flower petal' rim design, raised cylindrical foot, and a visible central assembly point in the base.
Color & Finish
Brash yellow with significant tarnish and iridescent patina. The finish was originally high polish but now shows multi-colored oxidation (blues and purples) and surface abrasions.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None visible in the image. Typically, such items are stamped on the interior of the foot ring; if unmarked, it is likely mass-produced decorative brass.
Dimensions Estimate
Approx. 8-10 inches in diameter at the scalloped rim; 3-4 inches in height.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The item relies on the mechanical scalloped edge and footed structure for decorative appeal.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable. Features a flared cylindrical foot ring attached to the main body via a central rivet or solder point.
Chain & Links
Not applicable. The rim features a scalloped 'petal' design, and the foot is a simple soldered ring.
Craftsmanship Details
Likely spun or stamped metal. The foot is joined to the body, and the scallops were likely machine-pressed rather than hand-chilled.
Authentication Indicators
Red flags for solid gold include the iridescent 'oil-slick' tarnish and the greenish undertones, which are characteristic of copper-based alloys like brass. The weight-to-volume ratio likely suggests a base metal.
Origin & Maker
Likely India or East Asia. These types of brass/gold-toned decorative bowls were heavily exported for the Western home decor market during the late 20th century.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (1950s-1970s). The scalloped edge and footed construction are common in Hollywood Regency or mid-century decorative tableware.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960-1980. The visible oxidation and the style of the central rivet/assembly point suggest a piece that is 40-60 years old.
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-war boom in home entertaining and the accessibility of 'luxury-look' items for the middle-class household.
Condition Notes
Fair. Significant surface oxidation, iridescent tarnishing, and visible scratches. The structural integrity appears sound, though the finish requires restoration if a gold shine is desired.
Value Estimate
$20 - $50 USD. The value is strictly decorative/collectible; it lacks significant precious metal melt value.
Care & Maintenance
Polish with a specialized brass/metal cleaner. Avoid abrasive pads. If the item is gold-plated, use only a soft cloth and mild soapy water to prevent stripping the thin gold layer.
Similar Items
Silver-plated Revere bowls, Victorian-era brass jam pans, or contemporary gold-anodized aluminum serveware.
Interesting Facts
The 'oil-slick' patina seen on the surface is actually a thin layer of oxidation that causes light interference, similar to how a soap bubble creates colors.