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).
Rare Large 19th-Century Victorian Copper and Brass Jardinière Vessel
Located in High Peak, GB
P0126 An exceptional 19th-century Victorian copper and brass vessel of grand and impressive proportions. This striking antique jardinière features a beautifully tapered copper body a...
Brass, Copper
Most Unusual Large Victorian Copper and Brass Planter Jardiniere Vessel
Located in High Peak, GB
P0126 Outstanding 19th century copper and brass vessel of large proportions, having brass collar and substantial brass handles with bat or dragon wing motifs. This antique vessel w...
Brass, Copper
Edwardian Brass Coal Bucket or Planter, Fretwork Design, Circa 1900
Located in High Peak, GB
P016 An elegant Edwardian brass coal bucket or planter with fretwork design, circa 1900. This stylish Edwardian fireside piece features a beautifully detailed, pierced fretwork band ...
Brass
English Arts and Crafts Copper Coal Bin Log Bucket c1900s
Located in High Peak, GB
P0318 Stylish and elegant Arts and Crafts copper plated metal log bucket of circular form, having lift up lid with a substantial handle enclosing original liner, all with decorative ...
Metal, Brass, Copper
Edwardian Brass Planter or Coal Bucket c1900
Located in High Peak, GB
p026 An exceptional English Edwardian brass planter or coal bin, dating from circa 1900. This elegant hearth piece features a secure lift-up lid that opens to reveal original interna...
Brass
Victorian Copper Coal Bin Planter with Brass Accents, England, c1890
Located in High Peak, GB
P012 This elegant late Victorian copper coal scuttle, dating to circa 1890, showcases exceptional late 19th-century craftsmanship. The piece features a rich copper body accented by ...
Brass, Copper
Jugendstil Copper and Brass Teapot by Atelier Mayer for WMF, Germany, 1905-1910
By WMF Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik
Located in Chicago, IL
Jugendstil copper and brass teapot set by Atelier Mayer for WMF, Germany, 1905-1910 Dims are of teapot alone.
Metal
WMF Art Nouveau German Silver-Plated Metal Sugar Bowl.
By WMF Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik
Located in Prato, Tuscany
We kindly suggest that you read the entire description, as with it we try to give you detailed technical and historical information to ensure the authenticity of our objects. Exceptional and very distinctive German silver-plated metal sugar bowl...
Silver Plate
Art Nouveau WMF Brass Punch Bowl, Germany, 1900
By WMF Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik
Located in Saarbruecken, DE
Antique brass bowl with original glass insert, a decorative piece from the Art Nouveau period Elegant design made of solid brass with two large hand...
Brass
Art Nouveau Signed WMF Pitcher Brass and Copper with Handle and Organic Details
By WMF Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik
Located in Verviers, BE
Art Nouveau Signed WMF Pitcher Brass and Copper with Handle and Organic Details Hand-hammered out of one piece of copper. Brass handle with Organic style details With original Pati...
Brass, Copper
Punch Bowl Style: Jugendstil, Art Nouveau, Liberty, 1900, WMF
By WMF Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik
Located in Ciudad Autónoma Buenos Aires, C
Logistics and International Shipping We provide a comprehensive export service so that your only concern is enjoying your acquisition. • Door-to-Door Service: Pieces located in our A...
Silver Plate
Antique Copper & Brass Art Nouveau Wine Cooler or Ice Bucket Planter WMF
By WMF Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik
Located in Greer, SC
Stunning Arts & Crafts / Art Nouveau era ice bucket or planter, created from copper and brass. Manufactured by WMF Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik, which in English means Wurtembe...
Brass, Copper
