Finland - Sauce boat - .830 silver - c.1920, Swedish Import

This elegant Finnish silver sauce boat exemplifies early 20th-century Scandinavian silver craftsmanship, likely produced in Finland around 1920 and subsequently exported to Sweden, where it entered the market or a private collection.
Description and Features
The piece features a classic lobed, scalloped oval body with a gently undulating rim in a quatrefoil or wavy form, evoking refined neoclassical or late Art Nouveau influences popular in Nordic design at the time. The body rises from a circular stepped pedestal foot with subtle gadrooning or fluting for added stability and visual interest. A gracefully curved, scrolling handle — elegantly proportioned and terminating in a small ball knop — provides ergonomic balance and complements the flowing lines of the spout. The surface bears a finely hammered (planished) texture, creating a soft, luminous play of light across the silver, with natural patina enhancing its antique character. This restrained yet sophisticated form reflects the transitional style between Jugendstil and functional modernism in Finnish silversmithing.
Dimensions and Weight

Width (handle to spout): approximately 13.5 cm
Height: 9 cm
Weight: 106.0 g

Hallmarks and Purity
The base displays clear marks consistent with Finnish export standards of the era:

Swedish silver marks.
830 — for Finland.
S (in hexagonal frame) — likely denoting "Silver" or the Swedish purity indicator, 830 standard.

Condition
Very good antique condition overall. The silver retains strong original luster with attractive, even patina and no significant dents, splits, holes, or repairs. Minor surface scratching, light wear to high points (consistent with gentle use over a century), and natural oxidation add authentic charm without detracting from display quality.
Historical and Collectible Value
Finnish silver from the early 20th century, particularly functional tableware like sauce boats, is prized for its blend of practicality and understated elegance — hallmarks of Nordic design philosophy. Produced during a period of growing independence and cultural identity in Finland (post-1917), such pieces were often exported to Sweden, reflecting strong trade ties and shared Scandinavian aesthetics. The 830 standard, combined with the distinctive Finnish import crown mark, adds rarity and appeal to collectors of Nordic silver, Art Deco/early modernist hollowware, or Scandinavian export pieces. Comparable examples appear in specialist auctions and collections focused on Finnish or broader Nordic silver.
A refined, well-proportioned example of Finnish silver artistry from ca. 1920, ideal for collectors of European table silver or Scandinavian design heritage.