Rodney Kent hammered aluminum basket with floral handle and embossed floral design.

Hammered aluminumware gained significant popularity in the mid-20th century, particularly in the United States, as a decorative yet functional material for tableware and serving pieces. Its lightweight nature, affordability, and the artisanal look achieved through hammering made it a favored choice for households seeking stylish home goods. Many pieces were designed with floral motifs and organic shapes, reflecting the Art Nouveau and Art Deco influences that persisted into the mid-century. Rodney Kent was a notable maker in this genre, known for his distinctive hammered aluminum designs.