Gorham 'Strasbourg' Pattern Sterling Silver Teaspoon
Flatware, Teaspoon · Gorham Manufacturing Co. (Providence, Rhode Island), founded in 1831, one of the most prolific and influential American silver manufacturers.
Pattern: Strasbourg pattern, introduced in 1897. It is one of Gorham's most successful and enduring designs, remaining in production for over a century.
Type
Flatware, Teaspoon
Maker
Gorham Manufacturing Co. (Providence, Rhode Island), founded in 1831, one of the most prolific and influential American silver manufacturers.
Material
Sterling silver (925/1000 purity). Solid sterling throughout.
Dimensions
Approximately 5 7/8 inches (14.9 cm) in length. Standard weight is approximately 25-30 grams.
Description
A classic example of late 19th-century American aestheticism, this teaspoon features the iconic Strasbourg pattern. The design flows from a scrolled shell at the terminal down to a shell heel on the bowl, capturing the elegance of the French Rococo style.
Key Features
The three-part scrolled shell motif at the handle tip and the matching shell detail where the handle meets the bowl. Clear 'lion, anchor, G' Gorham mark.
Material & Composition
Sterling silver (925/1000 purity). Solid sterling throughout.
Finish & Decoration
Mirror polish finish with scrolled shell motifs, acanthus leaves, and rococo-style curves. Die-struck surface with heavy embossing.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Reverse of stem is stamped with the Gorham hallmark (lion, anchor, and 'G'), followed by 'STERLING' and the pattern name 'STRASBOURG'.
Construction Details
Commercial die-struck construction from heavy gauge sterling silver sheet. High-pressure stamping provides the crisp, repetitive detail.
Functional Features
Standard teaspoon bowl with a droplet-shaped heel; designed for stirring hot beverages or eating soft desserts.
Handle & Grip Details
Fiddle-shaped handle with flared terminal, featuring deep relief rococo scrolls for an ergonomic and aesthetic grip. Solid silver construction.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial die-work. The pattern depth is consistent and the edges are well-rounded for comfort, demonstrating Gorham's superior manufacturing standards.
Authentication Indicators
Authentic Gorham hallmarks are crisp and recessed. Pattern details are sharp. Weight feels consistent with heavy-gauge American sterling flatware.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America, Providence, Rhode Island. Manufactured using industrial silversmithing techniques of the 19th/20th century.
Era & Period
Victorian/Late 19th Century (Design) with Neoclassical and Rococo Revival influences. Produced through the 20th century.
Age Estimate
Likely mid-to-late 20th century based on the crispness of the markings and uniformity of the finish. Pattern remains popular today.
Cultural Significance
Represents the Rise of the American Middle Class in the late 1900s, where owning a full set of Gorham silver was a primary status symbol and essential for domestic hospitality.
Condition Notes
Excellent condition; exhibits standard light surface micro-scratches consistent with gentle use. No significant dents, pitting, or terminal wear. Grade: Excellent.
Value Estimate
$35 - $60 USD per individual spoon, depending on the current spot price of silver and retail vs. auction market.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water. Use a high-quality silver cream like Wright's for tarnish. Store in a tarnish-resistant chest or Pacific silver cloth rolls.
Similar Pieces
Gorham 'Chantilly' (more delicate scrolls), Wallace 'Grand Baroque' (more ornate/pierced), or Towle 'Old Master' (similar shell/scroll motifs).
Interesting Facts
The Strasbourg pattern was named after the city in France and was designed by William C. Codman, Gorham's most famous design director.