A substantial and finely crafted electroplated silver double-handled serving tray by the Gorham Manufacturing Company, bearing pattern number YC777. The oval tray features a heavily cast Rococo Revival border ornamented with alternating shell, scroll, and foliate motifs, flanked by two robustly scrolled handles. The flat well is elaborately decorated with chased and engraved scrolling cartouches, floral sprays, and diaper-patterned reserves surrounding a vacant central mirror.

Condition Report & Provenance

• Artist / Maker: Gorham Manufacturing Company
• Period: Early 20th Century
• Origin: United States
• Material / Technique: Electroplated silver on base metal, cast and chased border, engraved well
• Markings: Stamped on the reverse with script "Gorham", "E [anchor] P", pattern number "YC777", and an "X" mark
• Decorative Details: Rococo Revival shell and scroll border, double handles, elaborate foliate engraving
• Colour & Surface: Bright silver finish with light surface scratches and minor scuffs consistent with age and use
• Condition: Good antique condition, showing typical light surface wear, minor scratches to the well, with no visible plate loss or major dents

History

Gorham Manufacturing Company, founded in Providence, Rhode Island in 1831, grew to become one of the world's preeminent silversmiths, renowned for both its sterling silver and high-quality electroplated wares. This tray, bearing the "EP" anchor mark, demonstrates the exceptional standard of Gorham's silverplate production, which rivaled sterling in its weight, durability, and complexity of design. The Rococo Revival style, characterized by asymmetrical scrolls, shells, and floral engraving, remained highly popular for formal dining and tea service presentation throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries.