An AMERICAN Parcel-gilt SILVER WINE COOLER, the design attributed to Thomas Pairpoint for Gorham Mfg. Co., Providence, RI, circa 1875

cylindrical, the upper rim applied with die-roll band of merbabies and infant Tritons riding dolphins against a matted ground, the leaf-capped rod handles centered by flowerheads and terminating in cartouches decorated with scrolls, lower body with band of inverse arches, lobes and pendant trefoils, removable slip-lock liner

engraving removed from one side, otherwise 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.

A waiter featuring an identical merbaby and infant Triton border is illustrated in Charles H. Carpenter Jr., Gorham Silver 1831-1981, 1982, p. 70, and has been identified as being part of the Furber collection, and extensive service commissioned by Col. Henry J. Furber between 1873-89.  The majority of the holloware in the 740-piece service was executed in High Victorian style, whereas the flatware was strictly Japanesque.  Although the present lot lacks the monogram EIF (Elvira Irwine Furber), the similarity in decoration and design suggests that it may have been part of this elaborate service.  Carpenter notes that the last time the Furber service was used was at a dinner party thrown in honor of actress Lillian Russell at the turn of the century.  In 1949 Furber's son, Col. Henry J. Furber, sold 606 pieces of the service back to Gorham, including 132 pieces of holloware fitted into eighteen oak and walnut chests.