Gorham Plymouth Pattern Sterling Silver Large Water Pitcher
Hollowware (Water Pitcher) · Gorham Manufacturing Company of Providence, Rhode Island; founded in 1831, Gorham is one of the most significant American silver manufacturers in history, known for high-quality craftsmanship and serving as the official silver supplier to the White House.
Pattern: Plymouth pattern (Design Number 224), introduced in 1911 as a Colonial-inspired Neoclassical design characterized by its elegant ribbing and shield-like profile.
Type
Hollowware (Water Pitcher)
Maker
Gorham Manufacturing Company of Providence, Rhode Island; founded in 1831, Gorham is one of the most significant American silver manufacturers in history, known for high-quality craftsmanship and serving as the official silver supplier to the White House.
Material
Solid Sterling Silver (.925 purity), identified by the 'Sterling' stamp and Gorham's hallmark; no base metal; approximate weight for this size is typically 28-32 troy ounces.
Dimensions
Standard size for a 4.5-pint capacity pitcher, approximately 9 to 10 inches in height. Weight is substantial, typical of Gorham's hollowware production from this era.
Description
This Gorham 'Plymouth' water pitcher is a masterclass in American Neoclassical silver design. Its proportions are exceptionally balanced, featuring a pear-shaped body divided by a central molded girdle that adds structural rigidity and visual interest. The pitcher stands on a flared stepped base, leading the eye upward to a dramatic, wide-mouthed spout. It represents the height of American upper-class dining elegance from the early 20th century.
Key Features
Distinctive 4 1/2 PINT capacity marking; design number 224; the 'Plymouth' pattern's signature horizontal ribbing; and the iconic Gorham lighthouse/anchor hallmarks.
Material & Composition
Solid Sterling Silver (.925 purity), identified by the 'Sterling' stamp and Gorham's hallmark; no base metal; approximate weight for this size is typically 28-32 troy ounces.
Finish & Decoration
Polished mirror finish with subtle Colonial Revival elements; features a prominent mid-body horizontal rib (molding), a graceful flared spout, and a sculptural 'scroll' handle. The design is intentionally minimalist and formal, lacking the heavy repoussé typical of the Victorian era.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'GORHAM' alongside the company's famous three-part hallmark: a lion passant (looking left), an anchor (symbol for Providence), and a Gothic letter 'G'. Included is the 'STERLING' fineness mark, design number '224', and the volume capacity '4 1/2 PINT'.
Construction Details
Spun and raised construction with hand-soldered components including the handle and foot; the body consists of a single sheet shaped into a bulbous form with a stepped circular pedestal base.
Functional Features
Wide pouring spout with an integrated drip guard lip; large interior capacity of 4.5 pints (72 fl oz) designed for water or iced tea service; balanced ergonomic handle for heavy pouring.
Handle & Grip Details
Solid sterling silver hollow-cast handle in a stylized S-scroll shape with a distinct thumb rest at the top and a refined terminal joint at the base of the body.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial craftsmanship with hand-finishing; the seamless join of the handle to the body and the perfectly centered stamps indicate a high level of quality control standard for Gorham.
Authentication Indicators
Authentic Gorham hallmarks with correct spacing and font; wear patterns on the base rim are consistent with sliding across tabletops over decades; weight and construction joints appear factory-standard.
Origin & Manufacturing
Providence, Rhode Island, USA; manufactured at the Gorham complex, which was the largest and most technologically advanced silver foundry in the world at the time of this piece's creation.
Era & Period
Early 20th Century / Colonial Revival Period; Plymouth was introduced in 1911, reflecting the American preference for refined, historical 'Federal' styles over the ornate excess of late Victorianism.
Age Estimate
Circa 1911–1940. While the pattern was introduced in 1911, the crispness of the stamp suggests a first-half 20th-century production date.
Cultural Significance
A symbol of status in the American home, the water pitcher was a centerpiece of formal dining service, reflecting the era's social focus on hospitality and the presentation of the table.
Condition Notes
Excellent condition based on images; shows light surface micro-scratching (patina) consistent with age and gentle polishing; no visible deep dents, repairs, or 'ghosting' from monogram removal.
Value Estimate
$800.00 – $1,400.00 USD, depending on the current spot price of silver and the demand for large-format Gorham hollowware in the retail antique market.
Care & Maintenance
Hand wash with mild soap; polish only when necessary using a non-abrasive cream like Wright's Silver Cream; store in a Pacific Silvercloth bag to prevent tarnish; avoid the dishwasher which causes 'pitting'.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany & Co. 'Salem' or 'Hamilton' pitchers (similar Colonial Revival style); Gorham 'Puritan' (simpler, no ribbing); Reed & Barton 'Winthrop' (more ornate foot and spout).
Interesting Facts
The Plymouth pattern was so successful that Gorham expanded it to include full tea services and trays; it remained a staple of American bridal registries for several decades due to its 'timeless' look.