Gorham 'No. 15' Aesthetic Sterling Silver Olive Tongs

Gorham's numbered items were generally made in a limited number of pieces rather than a full line, and were often enhanced in some manner, such as incorporating unusual design and/or a higher degree of finish than regular production items.

This 4 3/8" long, .64 T. oz., pair of tongs are stamped with the number "15" on the inside arch along with Gorham's "lion, anchor, G" emblem, and "Sterling," and are, consistent with the above statement, an unusual design and particularly well-finished.

Dating from the last quarter of the 19th century, the pattern, which is a series of raised curved ribbing with a crossbar, embodies Aesthetic sensibilities in its somewhat abstracted character.

The grips are cup form, with a lined surface that suggests a melon, and have bright gold washes on the insides and somewhat softer toned gold on the outsides.

The shape of the cups suggests they are olive tongs rather than for sugar.

Never monogrammed, these are in original condition, absent any wear or damage, and they show a brilliant surface.