Gorham 'Cromwell' Pattern Antique Sterling Silver Ice Cream/ Dessert Forks, Providence, RI, set of 12, c. 1900

'Cromwell' was patented in 1900 and is a simple and pretty pattern. With a small shell motif at the top, it is designed with scrolling, reeded sides along the handle. The shaped bowls and tines are beautifully gilded on the fronts and backs. There is an engraved script monogram 'RMSW' on the front for Ralph Montague Stuart Wortley.

The back of the handles are stamped with Gorham's trademark and 'STERLING'. These lovely forks measure 5.5 inches long, weigh an impressive 9.65 troy ounces and are in very good antique condition.

Provenance: Ralph Montague Stuart Wortley was the 4th son of the 2nd Earl of Wharncliffe. In 1891, he married Virginia Marie Schley, daughter of naval hero Rear Admiral Winfield Scott Schley and these have descended in the family.