Antique American Silver Soup Ladle

• Rhode Island, circa 1895 by Gorham
• Dimensions: 12 1/2 inches in length

A heavily elaborate Antique American Silver Soup Ladle in the Versailles pattern. This pattern was created in 1888 by Gorham’s chief designer, Antoine Heller. Gorham was so impressed with his work that they convinced him to leave Tiffany and Company and design for them instead. He was hired in 1881 and was Gorham’s chief designer from 1881 until 1904. Heller was influenced and obsessed with classical antiquity. Thus, he created many types like this that are beautiful and are intricate flatware patterns.

In the Versailles pattern, there are relief sculptures of different classical figures. These classical motifs are extremely graceful and heavily embossed. Thus, the workmanship on this piece is quite intricate with its scrolls and foliate motifs. This Antique American Silver Soup Ladle is marked on the reverse of the bowl with Gorham’s traditional lion – anchor – G trademark. Please note that there is also a script monogram G on the back of this very highly ornate and elaborate soup ladle. This pattern is very well sought after and enjoyed by many people.