Mid-Century Sterling Silver Bream Fish Brooch

Mid-Century Sterling Silver Bream Fish Brooch Scandinavian Style, Modernist Taste
This is a beautifully judged mid-century (c. 1940s) sterling silver figural brooch, modelled as a stylised bream and expressed in the refined, design-forward language collectors often associate with Scandinavian Modern taste: clean lines, confident simplification, and a deliberate emphasis on surface and form rather than literal naturalism. The result 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 jewellery 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 and metal
The reverse carries a split/partial purity stamp reading “STER / …LING SILVER,” consistent with the standard “STERLING SILVER” designation. There is an indistinct maker’s 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 and 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 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, this section can be refined to describe the mechanism precisely.
Worldwide shipping
The brooch will be professionally packaged and fully insured for safe global delivery.

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