Gorham "Medallion" Immense Sterling Silver Helmet Bowl Soup Ladle

Soup ladles in the Victorian era were characteristically large and this example is dramatic validation of this convention.

It measures 14" long and weighs 8.1 T. oz.

The capacious helmet-shaped bowl is 4 1/2" long by 3 1/2" at the widest, and 1 1/2" at the deepest (see image 2). It has a bright gold finish on the interior.

Made by Gorham, whose "lion, anchor, G" emblem, "Sterling," "Pat. 1864," and the name of the retailer, "Geo. W. Webb & Co.," Baltimore, the pattern is "Medallion."

The design features various classical Greek gods and goddesses, with the portraiture on this a matronly looking noble woman, likely Hera (Juno), who was the queen of the gods.

The handle end is pedimented and surmounted with an anthemion with scroll detailing. This is accompanied by a rosette set midway on the handle, with all these details in keeping with the Greek Revival nature of the piece.

The backside is engraved with a large Old English "H" monogram.

At the scale of this, all the detail shows to fullest expression. The medallion itself, for example, is 1 5/8" in diameter, which allows for ample development of the woman's profile, which is set in high relief.

In superb estate condition, this is essentially without wear and has a brilliant finish. The bowl is free of dents, breaks, or burrs.