Whiting Manufacturing Co. Art Nouveau Sterling Silver Covered Sugar Bowl
Hollowware (Tea Service component) · Whiting Manufacturing Company (founded 1866 in North Attleboro, MA; acquired by Gorham in 1924). Known for exceptional Japanese-influence and Art Nouveau silver used by luxury retailers like Tiffany.
Pattern: Mixed Floral Series - Wild Rose / Japonisme style (1880s-1890s); typical of Whiting\'s high-relief botanical commissions.
Type
Hollowware (Tea Service component)
Maker
Whiting Manufacturing Company (founded 1866 in North Attleboro, MA; acquired by Gorham in 1924). Known for exceptional Japanese-influence and Art Nouveau silver used by luxury retailers like Tiffany.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Solid construction with heavy applied and chased decorative elements.
Dimensions
Estimated 5.5 to 6.5 inches in height; weight approx. 350-450 grams (11-14 troy oz) based on similar Whiting sugar bowls.
Description
An exquisite example of American silver artistry, this covered sugar bowl features masterfully executed high-relief wild roses sprawling across a globular body. The naturalistic branch handles and lid finial are hallmarks of the Whiting Manufacturing Co. aesthetic, showcasing the transition between Victorian opulence and Art Nouveau organicism.
Key Features
Realistic botanical finial, 'twig' textured handles, high-relief floral chasing, and characteristic bulbous form with a stepped lid.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Solid construction with heavy applied and chased decorative elements.
Finish & Decoration
High-relief repoussé and chased floral motifs (wild roses with textured centers); oxidized recesses to enhance depth; dome-shaped lid with branch-form finial; cast twig-style handles.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Expected marks underside: Whiting logo (winged 'W'), 'STERLING', and pattern/model number. Likely lacks British assay marks as it is an American manufacture.
Construction Details
Main body is spun or raised; floral elements are hand-chased and repoussé worked from the interior; handles and finial are lost-wax cast and silver-soldered to the body.
Functional Features
Removable domed lid; twin side handles for serving; integrated foot ring for stability; polished interior for hygiene.
Handle & Grip Details
Cast sterling silver branch/twig form handles with applied leaf and bud details; soldered to shoulder; lid finial matches in a realistic botanical branch style.
Craftsmanship Details
Superior hand-chasing; the transition between the cast handles and the body is seamlessly executed; heavy gauge silver used, providing a substantial feel.
Authentication Indicators
The 'winged W' mark is the primary indicator. High-quality execution of naturalistic details (chased petals) is consistent with Whiting's master silversmiths compared to lower-quality period imitations.
Origin & Manufacturing
USA; Newark, New Jersey or New York workshops. Whiting was a premier American manufacturer during the Golden Age of silver.
Era & Period
Late Victorian / Art Nouveau (circa 1885-1900); characterized by the 'Aesthetic Movement' influence and realistic nature-inspired motifs.
Age Estimate
Circa 1890; dating based on the transition from Aesthetic Movement realism to fluid Art Nouveau lines and Whiting\'s pattern language.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 19th-century American fascination with 'Japonisme' and the natural world, reflecting the high social status of the elaborate tea service ritual in Gilded Age homes.
Condition Notes
Good antique condition. Moderate to heavy tarnish/patina (sulfide deposits) consistent with storage. Minor surface scratches. The repoussé appears crisp with no significant thinning or 'push-through' holes.
Value Estimate
$600 - $950 USD (varies based on weight and completeness of hallmarks; a full tea set would be worth significantly more per piece).
Care & Maintenance
Hand polish with a high-quality cream like Wright's or Hagerty; use a soft toothbrush for the deep crevices of the flowers; store in a Pacific Silvercloth bag to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany & Co. 'Audubon' coffee service pieces (more bird-focused); Gorham 'Martelé' (more hand-hammered look); Kirk 'Repoussé' (denser, busier floral coverage).
Interesting Facts
Whiting was the primary competitor to Tiffany & Co. in the late 19th century and actually produced many of the items sold in Tiffany's storefront before being bought by Gorham.