Ebony and Silver Letter Opener by WMF, circa 1930
View Similar Items
Ebony and Silver Letter Opener by WMF, circa 1930
About the Item
- Creator:WMF Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik (Workshop/Studio)
- Dimensions:Height: 0.2 in (5.08 mm)Width: 9 in (22.86 cm)Depth: 1.2 in (3.05 cm)
- Style:Art Deco (Of the Period)
- Materials and Techniques:Ebony,Silver
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:circa 1930
- Condition:Wear consistent with age and use.
- Seller Location:Mexico City, MX
- Reference Number:Seller: A02131stDibs: LU145324910723
WMF Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik
The fine brass, copper and silver metalware produced by distinguished manufacturer Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik (WMF) has adorned the tabletops of restaurants, hotels and homes around the world. WMF is especially prized by collectors for its Art Nouveau works of the late 19th century and Art Deco pieces manufactured throughout the early 20th century.
WMF traces its beginnings to 1880 when the merger of Straub & Sohn and Ritter & Co. formed the public limited company Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik. The company initially focused on tableware and decorative pieces, such as vases and planters. In 1892, WMF introduced its patented “perfect hard silver plating,” a technology that distributes twice as much silver to the sections of cutlery that experience the most wear, allowing the whole piece to hold its luster longer than other silver-plated products.
In 1905, WMF acquired a majority holding of Orivit AG, a company in Cologne that manufactured products from a tin alloy, further expanding its range of materials. By 1910, its main facility in Geislingen, Germany, employed 4,000 workers. It had branches in Vienna, Warsaw and London, and printed a catalog in 12 languages.
As a German business, WMF experienced extensive asset loss in the aftermath of the world wars. However, by 1950, its main facility once again had a workforce of more than 3,000 employees, and its high-quality products returned to popularity. There was an increase in demand for its Cromargan cutlery as well as work by WMF’s preeminent lighting designer, Wilhelm Wagenfeld.
By the 1960s, WMF’s main facility had 5,800 employees. More factories were opened to keep up with demand. WMF is now one of the largest manufacturers of metalware in the world and continues to produce pieces of superb quality. The company has over 200 branches in Germany, Austria and Switzerland, and owns branches in 40 other countries.
On 1stDibs, explore serveware, decorative objects, lighting and more from Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik (WMF).
- Silver Plate Letter OpenerLocated in Los Angeles, CASilver plate letter opener - a large and well designed letter opener in silver plate - ergonomically designed and weighted on one end for easy handling and an artful design - handsom...Category
20th Century Modern Letter Openers
MaterialsSilver Plate
- Sterling Silver Letter OpenerLocated in Brooklyn, NYThis sterling silver letter opener is a handsome piece that makes a great gift. Not only is it functional but a beautiful accent to your desk. Sleek and unadorned it works with any d...Category
Vintage 1940s Sterling Silver
MaterialsSterling Silver
- Two Amber And Silver Letter OpenersLocated in Haddonfield, NJTwo letter openers in dark, yellow and nearly white amber. Hallmarked silver.Category
Vintage 1960s Danish Mid-Century Modern Letter Openers
MaterialsSilver
$299 Sale Price / item29% Off - Macassar Ebony Art Deco Amsterdamse School Letter Opener, 1920sLocated in Amsterdam, NLWonderful and rare Art Deco Amsterdamse School letter opener. Striking Dutch design from the 1920s. Solid macassar ebony and the handle is a stylish shaped otter. In very good ori...Category
Vintage 1920s Dutch Art Deco Letter Openers
MaterialsMacassar
- Art Deco Gilt Silver Letter OpenerLocated in Miami, FLArt Deco fluted and partially gilt letter opener. The knife shaped silver opener features a fluted handle with gilt band and a tapering blade. An elegant and truly stylish desk acces...Category
Early 20th Century American Art Deco Letter Openers
MaterialsSilver Plate
- Letter Opener in Silver BronzeLocated in Saint-Ouen, FRLetter opener in silver bronze Silver plated bronze letter opener 35/42 microns Measures: L: 218 mm, weight: 118 gr This letter opener is the handmade work of French designer...Category
2010s French Letter Openers
MaterialsBronze
$582 / item