Material: Sterling Silver
Maker: Gorham
Hallmark: Lion, Anchor, G Sterling
#6675
in oval
Date Mark: Arrow point w/circle = 1894
Size: Height ~ 3 & 3/4 inches, Width ~ 4 & 1/2 (including handle)
Quantity:
1
This is a very special antique Art Nouveau Gorham sterling silver mug or cup for
a child, date marked for c. 1894, plus the number 6675 in an oval lozenge, as well
as the original Gorham scratch marks beneath the lozenge.
Per the book by L.J. Pristo, Martele' Gorham's Art Nouveau Silver, the lozenge mark
was used to indicate ~ Sample; pieces made for the Company's own use, as prototypes,
or for exhibitions. Subsequently, Gorham Samples are rather rare and hard to find.
NOTE: This same reference also offers complete details regarding Gorham scratch
marks. Brief excerpt: Many pieces of Martele, as well as other Gorham items will
have a group of figures or letters scratched into them, similar to jeweler marks
on a watch.
This particular sample is a large mug, with a somewhat bulbous lower body, tapered
middle and slightly flared, undulating lip. The applied handle features a very ornate
shell, scroll and feather motif. The seemingly acid etched and engraved aesthetic
Art Nouveau design appears to depict two turtles, or stylized sea creatures, frolicking
and playing amidst swirling, flowing water. Directly above the turtle design, ~
William P. Herod ~ is beautifully engraved. It was very hard to capture the fine
detail in our photographs.
The cup is quite heavy, solid and substantial. weight is a considerable 5.69 troy
ounces.
This mug was lovingly used by Master Herod, evidenced by a number off small bumps
and dings, especially to lower rounded portion of cup which shows some areas generally
affected, with several pings to base as well. Edge/drinking lip of cup also shows
his attention, with several nicks, which can be felt and seen upon close inspection
and it may be just slightly out of round.
The mug is not in perfect condition, it was not placed on a shelf and never used;
rather this mug was likely often used by a child full of spit and vinegar, as the
saying goes and subsequently tells the story. No large dents or dings; mainly small,
and visible more on inside of cup. We have tried to show the affected areas in the
pictures. The mug does sit level and handle is straight.
As stated, Gorham Samples are quite rare and hard to find and this particular mug
features a rather unusual aesthetic Art Nouveau design. If you like children’s items,
even if they show some signs of use, you will enjoy this mug, but if you prefer unused
articles you may not appreciate this mug, so lovingly used & enjoyed by Master Herod.
