Gorham Chantilly Sterling Silver Place Settings
Flatware (Forks and Teaspoons) · Gorham Manufacturing Company, founded in 1831 in Providence, Rhode Island. Gorham is globally recognized as one of the most significant American silver manufacturers in history, known for high-quality craftsmanship and innovative designs designed by legends like William C. Codman.
Pattern: Chantilly, introduced in 1895. Designed by William C. Codman, it is the most popular sterling silver flatware pattern in history and remains in production today.
Type
Flatware (Forks and Teaspoons)
Maker
Gorham Manufacturing Company, founded in 1831 in Providence, Rhode Island. Gorham is globally recognized as one of the most significant American silver manufacturers in history, known for high-quality craftsmanship and innovative designs designed by legends like William C. Codman.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). The composition is 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% copper for durability.
Dimensions
Forks: approx. 7-7.5 inches; Teaspoons: approx. 5.75-6 inches. Approximate silver weight is 35-45 grams per fork and 25-30 grams per teaspoon.
Description
The Gorham Chantilly pattern is the quintessential example of American Rococo silver. Its design features delicate scrolls and a graceful silhouette that evokes the elegance of 18th-century France. This collection includes dinner/luncheon forks and teaspoons, showing the versatile utility of the pattern. Its enduring appeal lies in its balance of ornate detail and slender, sophisticated lines.
Key Features
Characteristic 'split-scroll' design at the shoulder, scalloped shell-like terminal, and the famous fleur-de-lis motif nestled within the scrolls.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). The composition is 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% copper for durability.
Finish & Decoration
Mirror polish with oxidized (darkened) recesses to highlight the scroll and floral motifs. The style is French Rococo Revival, featuring scrolls, fleurs-de-lis, and a scalloped edge characteristic of the Louis XV period.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Reverse of handles will bear the Gorham hallmark: a lion (facing left), an anchor, and a Gothic 'G'. It will also be stamped with 'STERLING' and sometimes the patent year 'PAT. 1895'.
Construction Details
Die-struck (stamped) from heavy-gauge silver sheet. This process allows for high-relief detail and consistency across set pieces. These are solid silver throughout, not weighted or hollow-handled (excluding knives).
Functional Features
Standard table use features. The forks feature high-arched tines, and the spoons have deep, oval bowls. The shoulders of the handles are reinforced with thicker silver to prevent bending during use.
Handle & Grip Details
Solid sterling silver handles in the 'Chantilly' shape, which is contoured for ergonomics with a flared, scalloped terminal. The decoration is double-sided (scrolls visible on back and front).
Craftsmanship Details
Superior industrial craftsmanship. Even though machine-assisted, the final hand-buffing ensures that the recessed oxidation perfectly contrasts with the high-relief bright silver, a hallmark of Gorham's quality control.
Authentication Indicators
Hallmarks on the reverse of the neck; weight consistency; clear, non-mushy pattern detail characteristic of genuine Gorham dies; classic sterling 'ring' when tapped lightly.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States: Providence, Rhode Island. Manufactured using industrial die-pressing followed by hand-finishing and polishing.
Era & Period
Introduced during the late Victorian era (1895), reflecting the Rococo Revival movement that remained popular through the Edwardian and Art Nouveau periods.
Age Estimate
Likely mid-to-late 20th century. While the pattern dates to 1895, the absence of excessive wear and the crispness of the stamping suggests a mid-century or later production date.
Cultural Significance
Chantilly represents the pinnacle of middle-to-upper class American bridal traditions. For over a century, 'choosing your pattern' often meant choosing Chantilly, making it a symbol of domestic stability and heritage.
Condition Notes
Overall Very Good. Visible moderate tarnish (sulfide deposits) across the surface, especially in the recesses of the pattern. Minor surface scratches ('scuffs') consistent with light use. No signs of 'disherwasher damage' (milky white film) or tip wear on the tines.
Value Estimate
Current market value for standard pieces is approximately $40-$60 per fork and $25-$35 per teaspoon, depending on weight and condition. Replacement retail value is significantly higher ($100+ per piece).
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a high-quality cream polish like Wright's or Hagerty's using a soft sponge. Dry immediately to prevent water spots. Store in Pacific Silvercloth wraps or a tarnish-proof chest. Avoid rubber bands as they contain sulfur and will cause permanent black scarring.
Similar Pieces
Wallace Grand Baroque (more ornate/3D), Lunt Eloquence (heavier, more pierced work), or Reed & Barton Francis I (fruit and cluster motifs).
Interesting Facts
Chantilly was chosen for the official service aboard Air Force One during the George H.W. Bush administration and has been a top choice for White House state dinners. It has been the best-selling silver pattern in the world for over 125 years.