Gorham Antique Silver Overlay Porcelain Whiskey Jug, Providence, RI, c. 1896

This unusual and rare decanter was produced in a collaboration between Gorham and the Ceramic Art Company.

The Ceramic Art Company, which made exceptional porcelain and china, eventually become the famous Lenox company in 1906. This jug is produced in a rare magenta colored (glazed) body with a large panel on one side featuring a wonderful painting.

The painting is of a friar holding up a glass ready for a toast. With a jovial face, he sits before a whiskey barrel with a cooked chicken and bread. The theme, mood and quality of the painting is wonderful.

The silver overlay is stunning against the colored background. Large swirling foliage travels around the body. The splayed foot is totally encapsulated with silver as is the top of the spout and the handle which acts to protect the porcelain. A cartouche on the front is engraved 'GRMcG'.

An original clasp and chain attach the original stopper to the . The cork underneath the stopper is a later (working) replacement.

This rare item is marked underneath the porcelain 'CAC' within a wreath. The silver is marked with Gorham's trademark along with 'C2350' and the almost pure silver designation '999/1000 Fine'. It measures 7 inches high and is in very good antique condition with a very minor nick to the silver by the painting (visible in the photos, around 4 o'clock).