Gorham Chantilly Sterling Silver Sugar Tongs
Flatware (Serving Piece) · Gorham Manufacturing Co. (Providence, Rhode Island), founded in 1831; recognized as one of the most significant American silversmiths.
Pattern: Chantilly; introduced in 1895 and designed by William C. Codman. It remains the world's most popular sterling pattern.
Type
Flatware (Serving Piece)
Maker
Gorham Manufacturing Co. (Providence, Rhode Island), founded in 1831; recognized as one of the most significant American silversmiths.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity) with no mixed materials; solid construction throughout.
Dimensions
Approximately 3.5 to 4.5 inches in length; weight varies by size but typically ranges from 15 to 30 grams.
Description
This elegant sugar tong in the world-famous Chantilly pattern by Gorham displays the refined Rococo scrolls that have made this pattern a staple of American dining for over a century. The delicate 'U' shape provides the perfect spring tension for sugar service.
Key Features
Characteristic fleur-de-lis scrollwork, heavy gauge silver for durability, and the iconic 'Lion-Anchor-G' Gorham hallmark.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity) with no mixed materials; solid construction throughout.
Finish & Decoration
Mirror-polished finish with scrolled, fluted borders and a fleur-de-lis motif characteristic of the Louis XV style. It features a plain tip suitable for monogramming.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped with Gorham's hallmark (Lion-Anchor-G), 'STERLING', and often a pattern code or patent date on the interior bridge.
Construction Details
Die-struck from a single piece of silver, then bent into a 'U' shape to provide tension. Hand-finished edges.
Functional Features
Spring-tension bridge for gripping sugar cubes; spoon-shaped or claw-shaped tips (the image shows flat/spoon style tips).
Handle & Grip Details
Hollow-curved 'U' shape with integrated tension; handle sides feature the deep chasing of the Chantilly scrollwork.
Craftsmanship Details
Superior die-work showing high-relief scrolls with excellent symmetry; the bridge is engineered to maintain tension without snapping.
Authentication Indicators
Hallmark consistency on the interior bridge; deep, crisp die-striking of the Chantilly scrolls; appropriate weight and 'springiness' of the silver.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America; Providence, Rhode Island. Manufactured using high-precision industrial die-striking.
Era & Period
Late Victorian / Art Nouveau era (introduced 1895); heavily influenced by French Rococo (Louis XV) design.
Age Estimate
c. 1895–Present; based on the high-relief definition, this piece likely dates to the mid-20th century.
Cultural Significance
Represents the Gilded Age's emphasis on specialized dining utensils and the rise of American industrial silversmithing excellence.
Condition Notes
Very Good; shows minor surface scratches consistent with use. Tension appears strong. Light tarnish is visible in the recessed patterns.
Value Estimate
$45 - $85 USD depending on specific size, weight, and the presence of monograms.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a high-quality silver cream (e.g., Wright's) and a soft cotton cloth. Hand wash only. Avoid rubber bands which can corrode silver.
Similar Pieces
Towle 'Old Master' or Wallace 'Grand Baroque' sugar tongs; however, Chantilly is distinguished by its more delicate, fluid scrollwork.
Interesting Facts
The Chantilly pattern was so popular it was used on the McKinley administration's White House silver. It is the most collected silver pattern in history.