Gorham Rare Aluminum Paper Knife, Providence, RI, 1891

In the early 1890s, Gorham experimented with creating products (practically all small wares) made of aluminum. According to their records, Gorham produced very few objects in this metal over a brief period around 1891, including three models of paper knives: #22, #23, and #45. (1)

This rare paper knife is a single piece of aluminum with a pointed tip and rounded-end handle. The lovely decoration on both sides of the handle is created by the use of etching, stoning, bobbing, and finishing techniques. Not listed on the costing ledger is the engraving for the details of the flowing leaves and flowers. One side also has a bird with outstretched wings over an area for a monogram, which has never been engraved. Another unlisted feature is the lovely gold background to the design. The rich gold color has a very fine, sand-like quality. As neither the decoration nor gilding are mentioned in the records, this is possibly a unique and/ or experimental decorated example. (Since Gorham made so little aluminum, they were all a bit experimental!)

This stunning find is marked 'GORHAM' along with their anchor mark, the model number '23', and their aluminum designation 'AL.' It measures just under 11.5 inches long and is in good condition with some wear and a few nicks to the blade from use.

Endnote:

1. Gorham Mfg. Co., Cost Book V. 9 Silver Holloware 1891-1903, Gorham Archives, John Hay Library, Brown University, pp. 276-284.