Pitcher 1880 - 1900

This is a silver pitcher of unknown date made by the Gorham Manufacturing Company. The company, founded in Rhode Island in 1831, became one of the largest producers of silverware in the world, its pieces adorning the tables of the White House and wealthy families across America. Looking at the pitcher's design, we see engraved floral motifs, alluding to nature and the romantic ideals of beauty. The elegant shape and refined details speak to the Victorian era's emphasis on ornamentation and display of wealth. Objects like these were not merely functional, but status symbols, reflecting the owner's taste and social standing. To understand the role of art like this, we can delve into company archives and period catalogs, tracing its production, distribution, and reception. By exploring the historical context, we can appreciate how this silver pitcher embodies the values and aspirations of its time.