Gorham Mfg. Co., Providence, Rhode Island (Retailed New York City) c.1880

An extremely innovative and quite likely unique creation, this set of demi-tasse spoons was obviously inspired by various foliate and aquatic leaf, branch and stem forms. The gilt-embossed Gorham label inside of the fitted case with its Union Square address, as well as the style of these spoons themselves (which are related to the well-known and more prolific Narragansett pattern), would suggest that these were made around 1880. Their original cost of $14.00, indicated on the case’s handwritten price tag, would – by comparison with other similar pieces from the period – suggest that these, although diminutive, were considered very special creations of the creative silversmiths of the Gorham firm.

DESCRIPTION: 

Sterling silver, twisted, embossed, applied and/or engraved into various terrestrial or aquatic foliate forms. Each of the spoons having a different design and form (11 pieces). Semi-circular case with original woven lampas-covered exterior, as well as a ruched and fitted silk-lined interior.

CONDITION: 

Original. One spoon lacking. Edge wear/rubbing to exterior fabric of case.

MARKED: 

Spoons marked “ STERLING”. Case internally marked in gilt: “Gorham Mfg. Co. / Sterling Silver / Union Square N.Y.” Original handwritten price tag on underside of case: “Gorm 12 Coff Spns. 14-”.

SIZE: Spoons approx. 3.5” l; case 11.5” l x 6” d x 1” h

PRICE: On request.

CALL NUMBER: 404-II-Os