Gorham "Bird's Nest" Antique Sterling Silver Berry Spoon, Providence, RI, c. 1870

This is an exceptional large berry spoon in Gorham’s very rare 'Bird's Nest' pattern. Introduced c.1865, this pattern is one of the rarest and most unusual of the American naturalistic designs in silver. It is comprised of multiple castings and stampings which were later hand-finished for detail and then assembled into various serving pieces (and ice cream spoons and nut picks). 

The handle is in the form of a tree branch that splits into three branches at the top which holds the bird's nest. The base of the handle has two large leaves which act as both decoration and support. The beautifully cast, 3-dimensional nest, with a gilt interior,  contains three eggs. A cast bird with wings spread is perched on the nest watching over the eggs.The shaped bowl is engraved on the back with an artistic cipher which appears to include a monogram of interlaced back-to-back 'C's' and a central 'M' initials.

This lovely server is marked on the back of the bowl with Gorham's trademark and 'STERLING.' It measures 9.75 inches long, weighs 2.85 troy ounces, and is in excellent condition.