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H3211
This exceptional centerpiece consists of a stand that holds two pairs of different-sized dishes and a central vase. The rectangular-shaped body of the stand, with a soft, matte finish, has curved ends with circular cutouts with applied rings that hold the two larger dishes. The sides of the base have two applied circular ring holders for the smaller dishes.
Stunning, classical banding of pearled swags and florets decorates the perimeter of the base and dish extensions. Classical feet with swirls and leaves ornament the corners of the base. The use of partial gilding gives the base a subtle warmth and elegance. Rising up is a central platform with a bold, reeded edge. It has a raised, shallow interior border in which the vase rests. This area is engraved:
Sallie & Warrie
FROM
UNCLE HARRY & AUNT GUSSIE
The banding used on the base is also used for the foot of the magnificent vase. The vase and the dishes exhibit some of the finest chasing and design we have ever seen. Four different engraved circles frame four different scenes of 3-dimensional flora against a textured background. Hammered surfaces and other flora fill the spaces on the corners and below the circles. A conical neck, which flares out at the top, features Egyptionate floral chasing and an artistically engraved "PSL" monogram. The top rim has an applied ring of bold beading.
The dishes are equally impressive. Central rings with petal ornament are engraved with intertwined 'PSL' or 'PLS' monograms. Surrounding the centers are phenomenal displays of dense flora. Although using the same variety of flowers and leaves, they are all chased by hand in various designs, making each one unique. They have applied circular ring bases of classical banding that match the stand and can be used to decorate a table or be passed around to share their contents.
The skill level needed to portray such beauty in this centerpiece is extraordinary.
According to the Costing Record at the John Hay Library, Brown University, the time it took to do just the chasing was 282 hours. Based on a 60-hour work week, the decorating took close to 5 weeks by a skilled chaser.
Provenance:
Christie's, Important American Furniture, Folk Art and Silver, January 19, 2018, lot 244.
Private Collection.
This phenomenal centerpiece is marked with Gorham's trademark, 'STERLING,' and the 'L' date mark for 1879. The stand is also scratched marked with the model number 'B80', which is also stamped on the vase, and the large and small dishes are marked '400' and '401, respectively. It is also engraved by the great retailer 'THEODORE. B. STARR, NEW YORK.' The stand measures 17.75 inches long across the bowls by 14.5 wide by 12.25 inches tall to the top of the vase. It weighs 106.35 troy ounces and is in excellent antique condition.
