Mushroom Corkscrew

A beautiful collector's item, both utilitarian and decorative. This model is a classic of mid-20th-century Spanish design. According to the hallmark visible on the underside of the base, it is a piece from the Arnavat company, made in Spain (Barcelona). Arnavat was a company renowned for its silver-plated metal or chrome-plated brass bar and tableware from the 1950s to the 1970s. Shape: This is a "hidden" or "case" corkscrew. When closed, it takes the form of a mushroom (often identified as a cep or boletus). Material: It is probably made of bronze, which is silver-plated. The golden wear visible in places is the patina of the bronze reappearing beneath the plating. Artistic detail: Note the meticulous work under the mushroom's cap, which realistically reproduces the mushroom's gills. Dual Functionality This object is a "2-in-1": Corkscrew: The screw (worm gear) is fixed inside the cap. The mushroom stem serves as a handle for gripping, but also as a protective case. Bottle Opener: The rectangular opening located under the base of the stem serves as a bottle opener for crown caps (beer, soda). This "Mushroom" model by Arnavat is quite sought after by collectors of "lorgnons" (bar curiosities) and lovers of Mid-Century Modern design. It is a typical piece of 1960s lifestyle, combining humor (the mushroom shape) with the elegance of metal.