Gorham Athenic Antique Sterling Silver and Glass Ice Cream or Dessert Plates, set of 12, Providence, RI, c. 1903

This is a beautiful and rare ice cream or dessert set executed in Gorham's famous 'Athenic' line. Similar to Martelé, Athenic pieces include significant hand chased decoration in an expressive art nouveau style. However, unlike Martelé, the bodies of the pieces sometimes include machine work in their forming.

These plates have inset glass interiors signed 'HAWKES' and are engraved with a central flower with four tendrils with leaves spreading outwards. The wide border is of exquisite design and quite striking. Bold strawberries and leaves are bordered with leaves and flowers. Between these alternating scenes are clusters of grapes on vines.

According to Gorham's records in 1903, these plates had an original factory cost of $22.00 each and were referenced as ice cream plates; however, they can be used in a myriad of ways of entertaining. How elegant and fun it would be to use these as wine glass coasters at every setting or be used as bread plates, etc. - not to mention dessert! 

These stunning plates are marked with Gorham's trademark and 'ATHENIC/ STERLING/ D1222.' They measure 6 inches in diameter and are in excellent antique condition.