| This is a superb example of the fine quality hand-crafted Art Nouveau silver which the renowned Gorham Corporation produced for its highly collectable “Martele” line. Its elegantly curving silhouette has been beautifully and expertly enhanced by exquisite decorative forms derived from nature and it has been expertly crafted to the very highest standards. The bowl conveys a sense of movement and motion through the eloquent use of flowing lines and curving edges and represents the Art Nouveau style at its most refined and elegant. The gentle curves of the base have been masterfully and expertly enhanced by superlative decoration in the form of trailing vines interspersed with berry clusters, while the undulating upper rim has been graced with a design of leaves, berries, fruits and pretty flowers. The main body has been skillfully decorated with a lyrical flowing design of scrolling leaves, all beautifully offset against a background showing the subtle but unmistakable signs of hand hammering. This truly exceptional museum quality piece is in perfect condition with a crispness and clarity of design visible on all the decorative elements and a lovely soft and pleasing patina throughout. It has been stamped on the underside of the base with the identifying marks of the Gorham Corporation of Providence, R.I. together with the word “Martele” and the symbol of an eagle. The number .9584 indicates the silver content (9584/1000 parts fine silver) and the initials H, R and Q which are also clearly visible, appear in the Gorham archives and show that this bowl was made in November1905 by the silversmith William L. Hughes Jr, and was then decorated by A. Fogliata. It is a remarkable tour de force of American silversmithing at its very finest and would be of interest to any connoisseur of American sterling as well as any collector of Art Nouveau or “Martlele”. It measures approx. 13 ½” X 11 ½” X approx 4 ½” tall and weighs 47 troy ounces. Price: $32,500.00 Stock #BD340 |