Obadiah Rich Antique Sterling Silver Sauce Boat, Boston, MA, c. 1840's

This is a stunning and rare example of Obadiah Rich silver in the classical taste. The inverted helmet-shaped body exhibits graceful curves and wonderful proportions. An applied border is used to strengthen the piece and, along with its chased leaf design, decorate the edge. Below the rim is an area of chased leaves hanging downward and repousséd leaves facing upward enveloping a plain surface.

The lower section of the body is exceptionally ornamented with striking repoussé scroll work and foliate design against a stippled background. The handle is also impressive with its large c-scroll design incorporating classical foliate embellishments.

The attached oval pedestal base is plain on the upper level and engraved with a vermicelli design in the lower area. It is engraved 'LOD' in a script style on the front top of the base.

This rare sauce boat is marked underneath the bowl 'O. RICH/ fine/ BOSTON' and 'O. RICH' on the underside rim of the foot. Someone later stamped 'STERLING' underneath the foot. The boat measures 8.5 inches long across the handle and spout by 6.75 inches tall to the top of the handle, weighs 15.55 troy ounces and is in very good/ excellent condition with light, expected wear to the surface.