Gorham Sterling Silver Flatware Service, 705 Pieces

Sterling Silver Flatware Service for 18 Gorham Circa 1888 This monumental American sterling silver flatware service by Gorham epitomizes the stately glamour of turn-of-the-century dining. A total of 705 pieces in the beloved Versailles pattern comprise this extraordinary service. From the multitudinous teaspoons to the servers and dinner knives, the flatware’s intricate Victorian design incorporates both Rococo and neoclassical elements, emulating the timeless luxury of Louis XIV of France's Palace of Versailles. The Gorham Manufacturing Company, founded in Providence, Rhode Island in 1831, would become one of America's largest producers of sterling silver and silverplate, as well as a foundry for bronze sculpture. Among the most recognized and coveted patterns in the world, the Versailles pattern was created and patented in 1888 by Gorham’s chief designer Antoine Heller, who was highly influenced by neoclassical artist Jean-Léon Gérôme. Hired by Gorham in 1881, he set about sculpting some of the most beautiful and intricate flatware patterns ever created. Heller’s artistry and craftsmanship allow each piece to be celebrated as a small work of art. The flatware service is housed in its original fitted chest. The flatware service includes: 68 tea spoons 49 cream soup 48 dinner knives 48 dinner forks 48 luncheon forks 48 all-silver butter spreaders 46 luncheon knives 42 fish forks 36 demitasse spoons 36 bouillon spoons 36 ice cream forks 36 cocktail forks 24 strawberry forks 24 tablespoons 24 dessert spoons 24 citrus spoons 20 dessert knives 18 all-silver fish knives 18 salad forks Chest on base: 42 1/4" high x 36 1/2" wide x 25 1/2" deep Off base: 19 5/8" high