Wood and Hughes Antique Sterling Figural Garniture Suite, NYC, c. 1870

Wood & Hughes made some exceptional silver, especially when creating objects which showcase their casting skills. This magnificent suite features a large and two smaller compotes to spruce up any dining room.  The central columns are designed with two different size castings of the same figure. The classical female figure, draped in fabric, emerges from unfolding leaves rising from a domed platform.  She holds two curled wire staffs and is flanked by birds on swinging rings which hang down from the handles.

The bowls have a soft gilt, matte finish to their interior and are bordered with a die-rolled band of repeating berries and leaves. The cast handles are also quite dramatic with wonderful scrolling wire and foliage along with two different sized rows of beading. The domed, stepped bases also incorporate beading, an area of matte finish, and another band of berries and leaves around the foot.

This rare suite of compotes or fruit stands are marked 'W&H/ STERLING.' The centerpiece measures 17.5 inches across the handles by 15.75 inches high. The compotes measure 14 inches across the handles by 12.75 inches high. They weigh a total 117.90 troy ounces, have never been engraved and are in excellent antique condition.