Gorham Manufacturing Co. Victorian Style Silver-Plated Candlestick, Model YV3004
Candelabra/Candlestick (Low-form pillar style) · Gorham Manufacturing Company of Providence, Rhode Island. Established in 1831, Gorham is one of the most prestigious American silver manufacturers, known for providing services to the White House and producing the America's Cup trophy.
Pattern: Victorian Revival / Rococo Scroll; Model number YV3004 indicates a specific hollowware design within Gorham's silverplate catalog.
Type
Candelabra/Candlestick (Low-form pillar style)
Maker
Gorham Manufacturing Company of Providence, Rhode Island. Established in 1831, Gorham is one of the most prestigious American silver manufacturers, known for providing services to the White House and producing the America's Cup trophy.
Material
Electroplated Silver (indicated by the 'EP' mark). This consists of a thin layer of pure silver electrically bonded to a base metal, likely copper or nickel silver (a copper-nickel-zinc alloy).
Dimensions
Estimated height of 4 to 5 inches with a base diameter of approx 4 inches. Weight is likely substantial due to a weighted base for stability (common in candlesticks).
Description
An elegant example of Gorham's plated hollowware, this candlestick captures the opulence of the Rococo period with its intricate scrollwork and fluted base. The piece serves as a formal dining accessory designed to provide atmospheric lighting while showcasing the prestige associated with the Gorham brand name.
Key Features
Rococo scrollwork along the base and rim; identifiable Gorham 'EP' mark; classic low-profile pillar design.
Material & Composition
Electroplated Silver (indicated by the 'EP' mark). This consists of a thin layer of pure silver electrically bonded to a base metal, likely copper or nickel silver (a copper-nickel-zinc alloy).
Finish & Decoration
Polished silver finish with Rococo-inspired decoration. Features scrolled acanthus leaf borders, shell-like flourishes, and a scalloped/fluted base. The style is a Victorian Revival of the 18th-century Rococo period.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'GORHAM EP' and 'YV3004'. 'GORHAM' is the manufacturer; 'EP' stands for Electroplated; 'YV' is a specific prefix often used by Gorham for their plated hollowware lines; '3004' is the design/catalog number.
Construction Details
Machine-pressed or die-rolled sections later assembled. The base is likely weighted with pitch, wax, or plaster to prevent tipping, a standard feature of non-solid-cast candlesticks.
Functional Features
Single candle socket with a flared bobeche (drip pan) edge to catch wax. The wide, weighted base provides a low center of gravity for safety.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable (no handles), but the central column features an urn-shaped knop for easy gripping when moving the piece.
Craftsmanship Details
Symmetric and well-defined die-struck decoration. The plating is of high quality, typical of Gorham, showing no signs of the base metal showing through despite its age.
Authentication Indicators
The 'GORHAM EP' stamp is consistent with genuine silverplate produced by the company. The YV3004 model number matches Gorham's known inventory numbering formats for non-sterling items.
Origin & Manufacturing
Providence, Rhode Island, USA. Manufactured in the Gorham industrial facility using industrial electroplating and die-striking techniques.
Era & Period
Victorian Revival / Late 20th Century. While the design is Victorian (1837-1901) in style, the 'YV' numbering system and stamp style suggest mid-to-late 20th-century production (c. 1950-1980).
Age Estimate
Circa 1950–1980. The 'YV' prefix is common on mid-century Gorham silverplate giftware and catalog pieces.
Cultural Significance
Represents the American tradition of formal dining and the 'democratization' of luxury, where silver-plated items allowed middle-class families to enjoy the aesthetics of solid silver at a lower price point.
Condition Notes
Good condition with visible tarnish ('patina') in the crevices. Likely some light surface scratching ('swirls') from previous polishing. No major dents or loss of plating ('bleeding') are visible in the photo.
Value Estimate
$25.00 - $65.00 for a single candlestick; $80.00 - $150.00 for a matched pair in excellent condition. Being silverplate ('EP') rather than solid sterling significantly limits the material value to collectible interest only.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild silver polish like Wright’s Silver Cream. Avoid abrasive cleaners or 'silver dips' which can strip the thin silver plating. Store in a tarnish-resistant cloth bag.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany & Co. silverplate candlesticks; Gorham 'Chantilly' sterling candlesticks (higher value); Towle silverplate giftware.
Interesting Facts
Gorham used specific letter codes like 'Y' and 'V' to distinguish between different grades of silverplate and different metals used for the base. Pieces like this were often sold in department stores as high-end wedding gifts.
Notes
Markings on bottom say “gorham ep and yv3004