Unusual Whiting Narcissus Cast Asparagus Server

Whiting produced a line of cast floral pieces, circa 1890, the extent of which is unknown. The design seems to have evolved from the same impulse that generated Gorham's massive H series pieces, and may have been intended to compete with that very product. They are art nouveau in style, always opulent in execution, and robust in scale. This asparagus server is an example of the line, and exhibits the aforementioned qualities. It is 8 1/8" long, and weighs just over 3.0 T. oz. The flower is narcissus. The handle is cast and applied to a struck serving area. It is stamped with the word Sterling, the number 3, and a blurred Whiting emblem. There is a museum in Providence, RI, that owns sixteen of the original casting dies for this line (in several different flowers), and this piece has been authenticated by that source. The condition is outstanding. The form is flawless, and there is just enough surface wear to yield a fine patina.