W.J. Behan c. 1870 Sterling Silver Fancy Bowl Sugar Sifter

A 7 5/8" long, 1.7 T. oz., item, this piece is marked "W.J. Behan," along with "925 Sterling."

W.J. Behan is an elusive name to document, at least as relates to silver.

It is most associated with William J. Behan, who was mayor of New Orleans from 1882 to 1884, but there is no record that he was ever involved in the silver retail trade.

There is also a reference in an 1898 edition of the Jewelers' Circular and Horological Review to a person of this name representing the "Newark Tortoise Shell Novelty Co.," but this is considerably after the date of this piece, so a weak link.

In sum, who or what firm "W.J. Behan" references is uncertain.

The actual maker and date, however, are more readily apparent.

The style suggests an 1860s to 1870s period, while the sterling standard situates it toward the later range of those dates.

The mark and the scalloped edge, coffered wall, bowl were both used by John Wendt, although William Gale is another possibility for the same reasons. Both men were located in New York City and their dates are appropriate for this.

The handle is a tube with square edged sides leading to a disk end with a knob tip, and a shaped lower section. The surface of this is bright cut engraved with wriggle work detailing.

The open area of the disk is inscribed with the name "Brooks" set sideways. This is a clearly a second monogram as there is obvious evidence of a (previous) monogram removal.

The bowl is finished in a gold wash front and back sides, although the gold on the reverse is more polished away than not.

The lower portion of the handle has beveled edges and a block-like decorative element that also has a gold finish.

Apart from the monogram removal, this is in very fine condition, absent polishing wear or damage such as dents, bends, or surface mars. The overall finish is bright and even.