An American aesthetic mixed metal silver bowl by Gorham

A transatlantic departure from my normal British staple, but who could resist this near edible mixed metal Gorham bowl.  The sterling silver hammered bowl, decorated with copper grapes, vine and rose leaves, butterflies and swallows.  The vine leaves have a gold green hue and are not copper, possibly being silver gilt or brass.

All beautifully done and in excellent condition with good original patina and definition.   The bowl is fully marked, with model number 1735.  The full Gorham marks are quite rubbed but still identifiable.  It is marked with date letter N for 1881.

This style of silver has its origins in Japan. In 1876 Christopher Dresser visited Japan and acquired many objects that he sold to Tiffany in New York.  That in turn helped inspire Edward C. Moore, Tiffany’s design director, to produce silver and copper pieces in the Japanese style, displayed at the 1878 Paris Exposition to great acclaim.  Gorham, as one of the leading US firms, was quick to adapt to this new trend and produced a range of Japanese style mixed metal silver from c. 1878, of which this is a prime example.

Price range: Sold

Maker: Gorham & Co

Designer: NA

Date : 1881

Marks: STERLING AND OTHER METALS, 1735, N,  Gorham marks.

Material: Sterling silver, copper

Condition: Very good

Size: 17.25 cm max width, 7.0cm high

Weight : 12.6 oz, 358 grams (not all silver weight)