Gorham Antique Sterling Silver Figural Candy Dish, Providence, RI, 1872

This is a charming and very rare piece of figural silver by Gorham. The body is boat-shaped with the sides engraved to resemble wooden boards and nails. The four cast and applied feet are in the form of shells. The central pedestal handle is beautifully engraved at the base 'JFF'. It is surmounted with the wonderful scene of two sailors turning a capstan to weigh anchor. The interior of this dish is gilded and the interior has a lovely overall matte finish.

This rare nautical inspired sterling dish is marked with Gorham's trademark, 'STERLING/ 100/ E/ STARR & MARCUS'. The 'E' is the 1872 date mark and Starr & Marcus were famous New York retailers. This lovely dish measures 7 inches long by 3 inches deep by 3.5 inches high, weighs 9.75 troy ounces and is in excellent antique condition.