Gorham 'Nightingale' Solid Sterling Silver Fish or Ice Cream Server

Lengthy at 10 1/4" and weighing 2.6 T. oz., this all silver server is likely a fish slice although some sources identify it as an ice cream server.

Ice cream servers tend to be more bulbous or stubby than fish slices, while conversely the later is more slender and generally has a more pointed tip and flatter surface than the former, and this goes in that direction. For contemporary usage, it could be used for a multitude of purposes.

Made by Gorham, whose "lion, anchor, G" emblem and the word "Sterling" are stamped on the handle reverse, the pattern is Nightingale issued in 1885.

One of myriad engraved patterns of the period that Gorham and other companies produced that showed a decided Aesthetic, i.e. Eastlake, influence, the design on this is that, with the addition of a charming perched bird with uplifted throat. The imagery is such that it seems the sound of song is virtually wafting off the handle.

The blade has scalloped shoulders with ribbing extending onto a surface that is bright cut and wriggle work engraved in a design compatible with the handle.

Both sides of the handle and the upper surface of the blade are finished in a satin matte, while the blade backside has a bright finish.

Never monogrammed, this is in flawless estate condition. The engraving remains crisp, absent polishing wear, and apart from a few faint surface scratches largely on the blade, there is no other evidence of use or wear. The finish is soft and even.