AN AMERICAN SILVER PLATEAU, MARTELÉ, GORHAM MFG. CO., PROVIDENCE, RI, 1899 |

shaped square with plain center, surrounded by cavetto densely chased with water lilies, irises, tulips, lotus, and other flowers, waved and rippling rim, the reverse engraved with signature W.C. Codman and F.A. Jordan

Acquired October, 1989

one small rim split, otherwise good, crisp 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.

According to Gorham's Martelé archives, this plateau was finished August 28, 1899 and had a net factory price of $220. It took 35 hours to make, then 75 hours of chasing by Ernest W. Regester. The notes on the slip are "no decoration in center - for pitcher or vase - aquatic flower decoration."  Another note suggests that the piece was a special order for Bailey, Banks & Biddle, Philadelphia. Frederick A. Jordan (b. 1847) was foreman of the chasing room. After apprenticing at Gorham, he worked at Tiffany & Co. before returning to Gorham. When the firm opened their new factory in 1890, he was in charge of the room of 45 chasers. In 1900, his salary was raised to $50 per week, making him the highest paid person in the chaser's room. At the 1900 Paris Exhibition, William Christman Codman and F.A. Jordan were both awarded gold medals. Jordan retired May 19, 1907.