Gorham Mfg. Co.

each embosed with birds, baskets of fruit, cornucopias and floral boughs framing enamelled scenes of Psyche with putto, Cupid, peacocks and doves, comprising: Hand Mirror, No. 572; Hair Brush, No. 563; Clothes Brush, No. 563; and Clothes Wisk, No. 571

good condition
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Gorham's archives record that the dresser set was completed during the late fall of 1900.  The mirror was finished on 28 November 1900 and had a net factory price of $60.  The casting required one hour and fifty minutes, and was then worked by silversmith "G" for 13 3/4hrs.  Silversmith "G" was also responsible for working the brushes and whisk.  The painting of the mirror's figures required 36 hours with an additional 6 hours for enameling.  George. C. Richter, Gorham's master enameler from 1896-1907, contributed 9 hours to the painting of the mirror.  Richter spent an additional 9 1/2 hours painting the brushes and whisk.

In the same year as this set was made Richter received the silver medal at the Paris Exposition.  He was born in Carlsbad, Austria in 1861, and trained in Vienna.  Richter emigrated to the United States in 1892-3 and began working for Gorham in November, 1895.  As foreman of the enamelling department he was compensated $1 per hour, which at the turn of the century was an impressive salary.  Richter died in April, 1944 in Providence, RI.