This exquisite mid-century Italian silver botanical sculpture depicts a Periwinkle (Vinca) flower in full bloom — a five-petaled blossom atop a long, slender curved stem with a single detailed textured leaf, every element rendered with the delicate realism that made Italian silversmiths world-famous during the 1950s and 60s.
This piece belongs to the "Naturalistic" tradition of Italian silver decorative arts. The perpetual flower, crafted to be displayed as a standalone art object, placed in a small bud vase, or gathered into a silver "forever bouquet." It is the kind of gift that was made to last generations, and at nearly 70 years old, it has done exactly that.
The construction appears to be repoussé or electroformed, giving the piece a highly realistic, lightweight quality. The petals have genuine dimension and the leaf veining is beautifully articulated with natural patina settling into the recesses.
Hallmarks & Provenance
The piece is clearly stamped on the leaf with authentic Italian silver marks: • 800 — Continental Silver, 80% pure silver, the standard for quality Italian decorative arts of this era • "LF" — the registered maker's mark of a Paduan silversmith with initials L.F. The specific workshop has not been conclusively identified; knowledgeable buyers are welcome to research further • The absence of the post-1968 pentagram star dates this piece to approximately 1944–1968, most likely the 1950s
Details:
• Material: .800 Continental Silver (tested) • Origin: Likely Padua (Padova), Italy • Maker: "LF" registered silversmith, Padua — workshop unconfirmed • Era: Mid-century, approximately 1950s • Design: Periwinkle (Vinca) bloom, single leaf, long curved stem • Type: Decorative botanical figurine — no pin or closure • Length: 6" • Weight: 10 g • Condition: Excellent vintage — beautiful natural patina in the leaf veining, no dents or damage. Would polish to a bright shine if desired.
Styling notes: Stunning displayed in a small bud vase, laid across a vanity tray, used as a luxury place card holder, or gifted as a unique "forever flower." Perfect for Grandmillennial, Coquette, or Hollywood Regency interiors.
