Clemens Friedell (American, 1872-1963)

Art

Who was Clemens Friedell?

Clemens Friedell was a silversmith whose work merged art nouveau with the Arts and Crafts aesthetics of the 20th century. He worked for a time at the Gorham Firm before building his own workshop in Pasadena California. His sterling silver pieces were highly sought after, enough so that he could retire to Texas by the 1920s. After a costly divorce though, Friedell would move back to California and set up yet another silversmith workshop. He continued to make silver items by hand until his death in 1963. 

Friedell’s work is easily recognized thanks to his jewelry and holloware marks that he left on every piece he created. The Clemens Friedell Pasadena Sterling stamp is highly prized in the antique community and has commensurate value with collectors today. 

What kind of art did Clemens Friedell make?

Clemens Friedell was a silversmith who created handcrafted jewelry, holloware, and other items. His pieces were said to be reminiscent of the Martele style, which he first developed when working with the esteemed Gorham Firm in the early 1900s. Friedell also had many clients who had a great love of horses, and as such his series of “equine portrait plaques” have become highly sought after. He created several trophies, including many that were used in the Tournament of Roses parade (the Rose Bowl). 

How did Clemens Friedell get started?

Clemens Friedell was born in New Orleans but his family relocated to Austria when Friedell was a little boy. It was there where he would be educated and apprentice under an Austrian silversmith. At the tender age of 17, he moved to Texas but eventually settled in Providence, Rhode Island where he worked for seven years for the Gorham Frim on their Martele (handwrought) series. His big break came when he moved to California in 1911 after being commissioned by E.R. Maier to create his Orange Blossom set. The largest of these pieces was a 28” tall centerpiece which used 2,200 ounces of silver in its construction. 

How much are Clemens Friedell pieces worth?

Smaller items from Clemens Friedell (like cups or single pieces) can be had for $400-500, but bigger pieces (compotes, baskets, and vases) can be worth several thousands of dollars. Clemens Friedell’s pieces are easily recognizable thanks to his distinct stamp that Friedell put on every item he crafted. A typical estimate for a Clemens Friedell sterling silver pitcher could put it at anywhere between $3,000 and $5,000 dollars. 

Where to buy Clemens Friedell silver for sale?

See works for sale below. Why buy from Heritage? Art buyers feel confident because our experts know the market and put careful valuations on artwork for sale. We make the bidding process easier to help you expand your art collection.

How to value Clemens Friedell pieces ?

The best way to value art is to compare past auction prices for similar works. View past sale prices below. When you’re ready to sell, contact Heritage Auctions to request an auction estimate of the likely selling price at auction. If you need a formal written appraisal for estate planning or insurance, please contact our Appraisal Services department.