Gorham "Harlequin" or Jester Cast Sterling Silver Tongs

An image with roots deep in the history of theater, the harlequin figure has had many evolutionary manifestations.

This representation, a pair of 4 1/2" long, heavy at approximately 1.6 T. oz., tongs was made by Gorham, whose "lion, anchor, G" emblem and "Sterling" are impressed on the inside of one grip. These are illustrated in the company catalogue of 1888 (see above image 2) in a list identified as "sugar, olive, and bon-bon tongs."

Cast, these are highly detailed and portray the checkered pattern outfit that is emblematic of a harlequin.

He has a ruffled collar, buckled shoes, a floppy hat, and is holding a circled snake in each hand. These form the actual finger grips.

Various portions of the piece, including the snakes, hat, belt, legs, and cuffs of the shirt are finished in a contrasting gold vermeil.

Flawless, these remain in original estate condition.