American Sterling Silver Hollowware Piece by Gorham Manufacturing Co.
Hollowware (Bowl or Tray) · Gorham Manufacturing Company (Providence, RI), established 1831, renowned for high-quality American silver and for being the largest manufacturer of sterling silver in the world during the 19th/20th centuries.
Pattern: Standard Production Line, identified by specific numeric code (visible as 7x8 series), likely a mid-20th century classic design.
Type
Hollowware (Bowl or Tray)
Maker
Gorham Manufacturing Company (Providence, RI), established 1831, renowned for high-quality American silver and for being the largest manufacturer of sterling silver in the world during the 19th/20th centuries.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity) as indicated by the faint 'Sterling' stamp and Gorham hallmarks.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter 6-10 inches based on surface curvature; weight likely between 200 and 500 grams depending on whether it is a bread tray or bowl.
Description
A refined example of American sterling silver hollowware. The piece showcases a broad, shallow basin with a subtly textured satin interior that softens the reflection of light, making it ideal for serving fruits or bread without showing immediate scratches from use.
Key Features
Crisp Gorham ‘Lion-Anchor-G’ hallmark which serves as a guarantee of quality; numeric pattern code for easy identification within the Gorham catalog.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity) as indicated by the faint 'Sterling' stamp and Gorham hallmarks.
Finish & Decoration
Satin or planished interior finish with a reflective mirror exterior; minimalist aesthetic typical of mid-century or transitional Georgian revival styles.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Gorham hallmark featuring the Lion (left), Anchor (center), and gothic 'G' (right), accompanied by the word 'Sterling' and a numeric pattern/model number.
Construction Details
Spun or raised silver construction with machine-stamped hallmark; high-quality seamless finish.
Functional Features
Smooth concave surface for serving or display; stable base (likely a footed or flared rim).
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - Appears to be a central basin of a handleless vessel.
Craftsmanship Details
High industrial standard; the hallmark is well-struck, and the gauge of the silver is thick enough to resist warping, typical of Gorham’s reputable quality control.
Authentication Indicators
The specific font and spacing of the 'Sterling' stamp and the recognizable Gorham trio of marks are consistent with known genuine production from the mid-20th century.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States, Providence, Rhode Island; industrial factory production utilizing precision machinery and hand-finishing.
Era & Period
Late Art Deco to Mid-Century Modern (c. 1930-1960), characterized by clean lines and focus on the purity of the metal form.
Age Estimate
Circa 1940-1955 based on the style of the numeric stamp and the clarity of the Gorham hallmark.
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-war American shift toward 'functional elegance' in middle-class dining and the prestige associated with owning Gorham sterling.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good; visible tarnish (sulfide deposits) and minor surface pitting/scratches consistent with age and frequent polishing; no significant dents visible in central basin.
Value Estimate
$150 - $450 USD depending on the specific diameter, weight (melt value + 25-50% premium), and structural condition of the rim/base.
Care & Maintenance
Hand wash with mild soap; use a high-quality silver cream like Wright's for tarnish removal; store in a dry location inside a silver cloth bag to prevent oxidation.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany & Co. 'Windham' or 'Hampton' bowls; Reed & Barton 'Francis I' (though more ornate); Gorham 'Puritan' line (more plain).
Interesting Facts
Gorham was the silver maker for the White House during the Lincoln and Grant administrations and produced the America’s Cup trophy.