Hotchkiss & Schreuder 'Longfellow' Sterling Silver Gravy Ladle

This 1.9 T. oz., 6 1/2" long, solid silver gravy ladle is generously proportioned.

It is marked "Sterling" and "H & S" for Hotchkiss & Schreuder, Syracuse, New York, which firm operated operated under this name c. 1857-71, preceded by Bunnelle & Schreuder and succeeded by A.B. Schreuder.

The "H & S" mark continued in use even after the dissolution of the partnership between the two principals in 1871 ((Rainwater Encyclopedia of American Silver Manufacturers, citing Soeffing).

The pattern, generally identified as Longfellow, clearly follows after the Moorish and/or Egyptian Revival design modes popular in the 1860s and 1870s.

It features a repeating series of palm fronds, palmettes, rosettes and ivy leaves along a shaped handle with a pyramid end.

There is a central reserve area on the handle front which in this instance has never been monogrammed or inscribed.

The bowl is a form characteristic of H & S. It is round, 2 1/4" in diameter and 3/4" deep, has ribbed walls and a scalloped rim.

In outstanding condition, this shows no evidence of use save some light surface scratches, largely in the bowl interior. The pattern detail remains well-defined and the finish is bright and even.