Description

Title: Mid-Century Sterling Silver Bream Fish Brooch Scandinavian Modernist Style Taste

Description:

Mid-Century Sterling Silver Bream Fish Brooch Scandinavian Style Modernist Taste

This is a beautifully judged mid-century 1940's era sterling silver figural brooch modelled as a stylised bream, presented in the refined, design-forward language collectors often associate with Scandinavian Modern style taste—clean lines, confident simplification, and a deliberate emphasis on surface and form rather than literal naturalism. The result is a piece that reads as both a jewel and a small sculptural object: compact in scale yet substantial in hand at 20.27 grams, with a satisfying presence when pinned.

The bream profile is articulated through a softly modelled head and defined lips, a rounded body, and crisply simplified fins. What elevates the brooch—particularly for discerning American jewelry collectors—is the surface handling: a subtly planished/pebbled texture that creates shifting highlights across the body, contrasted by smoother, slightly raised areas that give structure and visual rhythm. In wear, it performs exceptionally well on darker textiles (cashmere, navy wool, black tailoring), where the texture catches light without appearing overly bright or “new.” �

Marks & metal �
The reverse carries a split/partial purity stamp reading “STER / …LING SILVER,” consistent with the standard “STERLING SILVER” designation. The brooch has an indistinct makers cartouche mark to the left above the Sterling hallmark area. The silver presents with an honest, vintage patina that suits the modernist aesthetic and complements the texturing.

Dimensions & weight
Width: 5.3 cm
Depth (nose to tail): 3.5 cm
Height (relief): 0.5 cm
Weight: 20.27 g

Provenance
From a Northern Shires dealer’s collection, subsequently curated by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD.

Why you’ll love it
Collector-grade feel in hand — at 20.27 g, it has the satisfying density expected of serious mid-century sterling.
Scandinavian Modernist style taste — streamlined, design-led modelling that reads as sophisticated rather than novelty.
Exceptional surface play — the planished/pebbled texture throws light beautifully and gives real depth on the lapel.
Wearability built in — a compact footprint with strong relief; ideal on tailoring, knitwear, and evening coats. �
Timeless motif, elevated execution — the bream form is recognisable, but the handling is modernist and refined.

Condition report
Presented in good vintage condition, commensurate with age and prior wear. The silver shows light surface scuffs and fine scratches visible under close inspection, along with areas of natural tarnish/patina—particularly within recesses and around textured zones—which enhances contrast and definition. The purity mark is partially struck/partially worn, reading “STER / …LING SILVER,” consistent with age and handling. No obvious splits or repairs are apparent in the provided images. As with all vintage pins, the clasp/hinge should be checked prior to dispatch; if you provide a clear reverse photo of the findings, I can refine this section to describe the mechanism precisely.

Reserve: $548.00

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Location: This item ships from United Kingdom

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In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Chairish Auctions specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Chairish Auctions within 5 days of receiving the item.

Condition

Pre-owned - Good

Buyer's Premium

20%

Mid-Century Sterling Silver Bream Fish Brooch Scandinavian Modernist Style Taste

Name: Mid-Century Sterling Silver Bream Fish Brooch Scandinavian Modernist Style Taste
SKU: 225794268
Price: 260 USD
Availability: InStock