Gorham Chantilly Pattern Sterling Silver Teaspoon
Flatware, Teaspoon · Gorham Manufacturing Co. of Providence, Rhode Island. Founded in 1831 by Jabez Gorham, it became the most influential American silver firm of the 19th and 20th centuries, known for high-quality craftsmanship and innovative designs including the White House silver service.
Pattern: Chantilly, designed by William C. Codman in 1895. It is the most popular silverware pattern in the world, inspired by French Rococo design and named after the Chateau de Chantilly. It remains in production today through the 4-Seasons group.
Type
Flatware, Teaspoon
Maker
Gorham Manufacturing Co. of Providence, Rhode Island. Founded in 1831 by Jabez Gorham, it became the most influential American silver firm of the 19th and 20th centuries, known for high-quality craftsmanship and innovative designs including the White House silver service.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Solid composition throughout with no mixed materials.
Dimensions
Approximately 5 7/8 inches (14.9 cm) in length. Estimated weight is between 24 and 30 grams (approx. 0.8 to 1.0 troy oz) depending on the era of production (later pieces are often slightly lighter).
Description
The Gorham Chantilly teaspoon is a masterpiece of American flatware design. Its delicate scrolls and rhythmic curves capture the elegance of the French court, translated into a form that is both durable and timeless. The bowl transition is seamless, leading to a handle that balances weight and aesthetics perfectly. It is the quintessential 'first choice' for brides and collectors alike.
Key Features
Characteristic C-scroll borders, unadorned central cartouche, flared terminal with small notches at the base, and the iconic Gorham 'Lion-Anchor-G' hallmark.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Solid composition throughout with no mixed materials.
Finish & Decoration
Satin and mirror polish with oxidized recesses to highlight the Rococo Revival details. Features a scrolled border with stylized fleur-de-lis, acanthus leaves, and shell-like shapes. The handle is unmonogrammed with a central cartouche left blank for engraving.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Reverse of the handle displays the Gorham 'Lion-Anchor-G' hallmark (Lion passant for Sterling, Anchor for Birmingham/Providence, and an Old English 'G'). Next to the hallmark is the stamped 'STERLING' fineness mark and a small pattern-specific code or symbol.
Construction Details
Die-struck from a single piece of sterling silver sheet. The design is pressed into the metal using hardened steel dies, creating high relief and crisp detail on the front and back of the handle. Hand-finished edges and polishing.
Functional Features
Standard teaspoon bowl with an egg-shaped taper for general utility; ergonomic handle with a flared terminal for secure grip.
Handle & Grip Details
Solid sterling silver handle, integral to the construction. The handle shape is a modified fiddle back with a scalloped edge and raised scrollwork details.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial craftsmanship. The design shows no 'flash' or rough edges, and the transition from the bowl to the shank is smooth, indicating superior die-set maintenance and finishing at the Gorham factory.
Authentication Indicators
Hallmark depth and style are consistent with Gorham's mid-century production. The weight feels appropriate for sterling rather than silver plate. The sharpness of the die-work in the scrolls indicates an original Gorham piece rather than a cast counterfeit.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America, Providence, Rhode Island. Manufactured in the Gorham factory using industry-leading hydraulic press technology of the late 19th century.
Era & Period
Late Victorian / Rococo Revival. While introduced in 1895 (Late Victorian), the pattern reflects the Louis XV style (1715-1774) and remains a staple of American Neoclassical dining.
Age Estimate
Likely mid-20th century (c. 1940-1960) based on the sharpness of the hallmark and the particular oxidation pattern, though the design has been produced continuously since 1895.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of luxury in America; it allowed middle-class families to own high-style silver that emulated European aristocracy. It became the gold standard for American bridal registries for over a century.
Condition Notes
Very Good condition. Shows moderate surface scratches from use (patina) and light tarnish in the deeper recesses of the pattern. The bowl is well-shaped with no signs of 'heeling' or thinning from excessive scraping. Grade: Very Good.
Value Estimate
Current market value for a single teaspoon ranges from $35 to $60 USD depending on weight and condition. Scrap value fluctuates with the spot price of silver.
Care & Maintenance
Hand wash in warm soapy water. Use a high-quality silver cream like Wright's. Store in a Pacific Silvercloth roll to prevent tarnish. Avoid the dishwasher, as high heat and harsh detergents can dull the finish and remove the intentional oxidation in the pattern's recesses.
Similar Pieces
International Silver 'Royal Danish' (Heavier, more modern), Wallace 'Grand Baroque' (Higher relief, more ornate), Towle 'Old Master' (Similar scrolls but less tapered). Individual Chantilly pieces also vary between 'Place', 'Luncheon', and 'Dinner' sizes.
Interesting Facts
Chantilly was selected as the official silver service for Air Force One during several presidencies and is widely cited as the most successful pattern in history by volume of sales. It was Codman's first major design for Gorham after arriving from England.