Early Version Gorham 'Versailles' Sterling Silver Pierced Sugar Sifter

This 7" long, weighty at 2.0 T. oz., piece is original example of Gorham's lavish Versailles pattern flatware, marked on the backside with the company's "lion, anchor, G" emblem, "Sterling," and "Copyrighted."

The multi-motif, rococo, design on the handle is figural and inspired by imagery found at the French palace for which the line is named.

The primary portraiture in this instance is a seated female, perhaps Ceres given that her lapped is draped in a sheaf of wheat.

The reserve area on the handle backside is engraved in a lined script monogram that appears to be "AMI" or "AMV."

The satin finish, oval bowl (see image 2) measures 2 3/8" by 2" by 1/2" and is artfully pierced is a leaf and blossom design.

This is without visible wear or damage. The pattern detail remains well-defined, showing only the slightest evidence of softening from polishing on the highest points of the figure. The bowl is free of bends, dents, or burrs, while the overall finish is soft and even.