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).
Art Deo Catch All Jewelry Dish by WMF Silverplated Wiener Werkstätte Style
By WMF Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik, Wiener Werkstätte
Located in Bad Säckingen, DE
Elegant Art Deco silverplated catch-all dish by WMF, finely crafted in the Wiener Werkstätte style. The piece features a beautifully scalloped edge and richly embossed floral and fol...
Metal, Silver Plate
Figurative Toothpick Holder Stand WMF Art Nouveau Antique Silverplated
By WMF Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik
Located in Bad Säckingen, DE
This cute antique Art Nouveau figurative toothpick holder by WMF is a delightful representation of the period's artistic sensibilities. Crafted from silver-plated pewter in a material known as "Britannia Metall," this piece exudes a certain charm and whimsy that is characteristic of Art Nouveau design. The toothpick holder features a figurative scene depicting a young boy cradling a dachshund puppy in his arms. This tender and endearing scene captures a moment of affection and companionship between the boy and his furry friend. The attention to detail in rendering both the boy's features and the dachshund's playful expression showcases the skilled artistry of the WMF craftsmen. "Britannia Metall" refers to a high-quality pewter alloy that was favored during the Art Nouveau period for its malleability and durability. The silver-plated finish lends a touch of elegance to the piece, while still allowing the fine details of the figurine to shine through. WMF, or Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik, was a renowned German metalware company that was at the forefront of Art Nouveau design. Their pieces are highly collectible and sought after for their exceptional craftsmanship and artistic merit. This antique toothpick...
Silver Plate, Pewter
Antique WMF Silver-Plated Art Nouveau Salt Cellar Spice and Mustard Menagere Set
By WMF Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik
Located in Bad Säckingen, DE
This exquisite antique salt and spice cellar with centered mustard pot menagere is a stunning example of Art Nouveau design by the renowned German manufacturer WMF (Württembergische ...
Crystal, Silver Plate, Pewter
Antique Art Nouveau German Silver Napkin Ring w. Glass Cabochons
By Gebruder Kuhn
Located in Bad Säckingen, DE
The antique Art Nouveau German 0.800 silver napkin ring is a stunning and intricately crafted piece of silverware that reflects the elegance and artistic style of the Art Nouveau per...
Silver
Antique WMF Art Nouveau Empire Pattern Cookie Jar Barrel or Ice Cube Bucket
By WMF Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik
Located in Bad Säckingen, DE
Antique Art Nouveau Empire pattern biscuit barrel by WMF. High quality crafted from silverplated brass with a cut glass liner this piece can also perfectly be used as a ice cube to...
Silver Plate
Antique French Sterling Silver Sugar Shaker / Sprinkler / Muffineer Cut Crystal
Located in Bad Säckingen, DE
This exquisite antique French sugar shaker, also known as a muffineer or sprinkler, features elegant sterling silver mounts paired with fine cut crystal. The crystal body is crafted...
Crystal, Silver
Vintage Viners of Sheffield English Regency Silver Plated Wine Bottle Coaster
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Vintage Viners of Sheffield English Regency Style Silver Plated Footed Wine Bottle Coaster with Ball and Claw Feet. Circa Mid 20th Century. Measurements:...
Silver Plate
19th Century Silver Plated Wine Bottle Holder
Located in High Point, NC
Late 19th century silver plated wine bottle holder from England. This is a lovely form. There are two handles, one on wither side, wh...
Silver Plate
Rare Antique Solid Sterling Silver Coaster / Bottle Holder - Edwardian
By Goldsmiths & Silversmiths Co. Ltd.
Located in Bath, GB
Usually found in silver plate and not in solid silver, this hefty example is made from sterling silver and hallmarked for London 1907, over 100 years old and Edwardian in era. Also ...
Sterling Silver
Antique Silver 800 Napkin Holder, Hand-Crafted, 19th Century, England
Located in ARMADALE, VIC
An Antique Silver 800 Napkin Holder, 19th Century Offers elegant design and craftsmanship. Home decor, Interior design and collectibles. Provenance: Private Australian Collection. ...
Silver
English 19th century silver plated champagne bottle coaster
Located in Delft, NL
English 19th century silver plated champagne bottle coaster A large round high silver-plated coaster with lion masks and garland at the top of the openwork part of the bottom of the...
Silver Plate
Vintage English Pierced Silver Plate Wine Holder
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
This elegant silver-plated wine holder is a refined example of classic English dining tradition, bringing a touch of high-society glamour to the modern table. Characterized by its in...
Silver Plate
