Solingen - Knife rest (7) - Bakelite, Steel - Bakelite knife stand

Art Deco Sunburst Knife Stand – Six Solingen Knives in Butterscotch and Hazelnut Brown Bakelite – circa 1930

An exceptionally striking example of German Art Deco design, featuring six Solingen knives arranged in a spectacular radial sunburst composition — a perfect expression of the geometric elegance and modernist spirit of the 1930s.

The outstanding feature of this remarkable set is its ingenious sculptural presentation: six knives radiate outwards from a circular Bakelite holder, forming a dramatic, symmetrical sunburst or rising-sun motif. Their long, angular handles resemble the rays of the sun, transforming an everyday dining accessory into a miniature piece of Art Deco sculpture.

This striking radial arrangement is far more than a practical storage solution. It reflects one of the most recognisable visual themes of the Art Deco movement: the stylised sunburst, celebrating light, energy, symmetry and modernity.

The six matching knife handles are made from beautifully coloured two-tone Bakelite, combining warm golden butterscotch yellow with rich, translucent hazelnut brown. Their strong geometric lines and contrasting colours further emphasise the dynamic, fan-like silhouette.

The original circular stand is equally sophisticated, featuring richly marbled brown Bakelite mounted on a contrasting butterscotch-coloured rectangular base.

The stainless steel blades bear the “Rostfrei Solingen” marking, indicating their German origin. The knives are suitable for fruit, cakes and pastries.

Condition and completeness

Excellent vintage condition, especially considering the age of approximately 95 years.

The Bakelite retains its beautiful colour and glossy appearance. The blades show minor surface marks and signs of age consistent with careful use.

Importantly, the set is complete with all six matching knives and its original circular display stand, preserving the full visual impact of the original sunburst design.

Details

Origin: Solingen, Germany

Period: Circa 1930

Style: Classic Art Deco / Sunburst Design

Material: Two-tone Bakelite and steel

Colours: Butterscotch yellow and hazelnut brown

Contents: Six matching knives and original circular stand

Marking: Rostfrei Solingen

Condition: Excellent vintage condition

A fascinating marriage of functionality and sculptural design. With its radiant sunburst silhouette, architectural geometry and luminous Bakelite colours, this complete set captures the optimism, sophistication and visual exuberance of the Art Deco age.

An exceptional decorative object for collectors of Art Deco, early plastics, German industrial design and vintage tableware — equally impressive as a functional knife set or as a freestanding sculptural display piece.