Gorham & Thurber Coin Silver ‘Fiddle Thread’ Kidney Shaped Server, Providence, RI, c. 1850-52

This rare and lovely server was made in Providence, Rhode Island, by Gorham and Thurber. It features wonderful bright-cut engraving of scrolling floral and foliate decoration around an oval cartouche. In the center of the cartouche, it is inscribed “MRW/ from/ RSF.”

The short-lived partnership of Gorham and Thurber was the beginning of Gorham & Co. as we know it today. Before he collaborated with Thurber, John Gorham was just a spoonmaker who wanted to make a broader line of silver. Thurber brought capital and management skills to the partnership, and John Gorham started making holloware during this period, getting his firm recognition throughout the country. The rest is history as Gorham become one of the most famous silversmithing firms ever.

This lovely server is stamped on the back with “Gorham & Thurber” along with “Pure Coin.” It measures 10.8 inches long, weighs 2.40 troy ounces, and is in very good/ excellent condition with light surface scratches to the blade from use.