This elegant 1978 sterling silver ornament by Towle Silversmiths is part of the company’s beloved Twelve Days of Christmas series—one of the most collectible and artistically refined sterling ornament collections ever produced. The 1978 edition, representing “Three French Hens,” showcases Towle’s mastery of engraving, balance, and narrative artistry.
Front Design — Floral Elegance
The front of the ornament features a beautifully engraved single blooming flower with gently curving stems and leaves. The composition is simple, graceful, and serene—echoing the naturalistic style that defined Towle’s late-1970s decorative silverwork.
The petal shading, dotted center, and flowing foliage all demonstrate the precision and subtlety of hand-engraved sterling, giving the ornament a soft, luminous texture.
Reverse Design — “Three French Hens”
The reverse side unveils the ornament’s holiday theme: three French hens, each framed within its own rounded medallion. These charming birds are surrounded by an elaborate field of swirling scrollwork, creating a sense of movement and festive whimsy.
This side displays:
Three stylized hens, symbolizing the third gift from the classic Christmas carol.
Richly engraved scrolls that fill the background with traditional Victorian flair.
The inscription “Towle Sterling © 1978”, confirming authenticity and its place in the annual Towle series.
The teardrop-shaped silhouette gives the ornament a unique and elegant profile that distinguishes it from round, flat Christmas medallions.
Solid Sterling Silver Craftsmanship
Made from solid sterling silver (.925), the ornament is polished to a brilliant mirror finish that reflects tree lights or display lighting beautifully. Towle’s craftsmanship is evident in the crisp engraving and balanced design—qualities that continue to make their ornaments highly sought after.
A Collectible Heirloom
The Twelve Days of Christmas Towle series is cherished by collectors, and the 1978 “Three French Hens” edition is particularly desirable for its dual-sided decoration and beautiful teardrop form. It makes a meaningful addition to any holiday ornament collection or a perfect heirloom gift.
A Piece of Christmas Artistry
From the delicate floral engraving to the charming trio of hens, this sterling silver Towle ornament captures the magic, nostalgia, and craftsmanship that define the holiday season. It is more than a decoration—it’s a keepsake to be enjoyed and passed down for generations.
Creator:
Towle Silversmiths (Manufacturer)
Dimensions:
Height: 2.5 in (6.35 cm)Diameter: 2 in (5.08 cm)
Materials and Techniques:
Sterling Silver
Place of Origin:
United States
Period:
1970-1979
Date of Manufacture:
1978
Condition:
Excellent
This elegant 1978 sterling silver ornament by Towle Silversmiths is part of the company’s beloved Twelve Days of Christmas series—one of the most collectible and artistically refined sterling ornament collections ever produced. The 1978 edition, representing “Three French Hens,” showcases Towle’s mastery of engraving, balance, and narrative artistry.
Front Design — Floral Elegance
The front of the ornament features a beautifully engraved single blooming flower with gently curving stems and leaves. The composition is simple, graceful, and serene—echoing the naturalistic style that defined Towle’s late-1970s decorative silverwork.
The petal shading, dotted center, and flowing foliage all demonstrate the precision and subtlety of hand-engraved sterling, giving the ornament a soft, luminous texture.
Reverse Design — “Three French Hens”
The reverse side unveils the ornament’s holiday theme: three French hens, each framed within its own rounded medallion. These charming birds are surrounded by an elaborate field of swirling scrollwork, creating a sense of movement and festive whimsy.
This side displays:
Three stylized hens, symbolizing the third gift from the classic Christmas carol.
Richly engraved scrolls that fill the background with traditional Victorian flair.
The inscription “Towle Sterling © 1978”, confirming authenticity and its place in the annual Towle series.
The teardrop-shaped silhouette gives the ornament a unique and elegant profile that distinguishes it from round, flat Christmas medallions.
Solid Sterling Silver Craftsmanship
Made from solid sterling silver (.925), the ornament is polished to a brilliant mirror finish that reflects tree lights or display lighting beautifully. Towle’s craftsmanship is evident in the crisp engraving and balanced design—qualities that continue to make their ornaments highly sought after.
A Collectible Heirloom
The Twelve Days of Christmas Towle series is cherished by collectors, and the 1978 “Three French Hens” edition is particularly desirable for its dual-sided decoration and beautiful teardrop form. It makes a meaningful addition to any holiday ornament collection or a perfect heirloom gift.
A Piece of Christmas Artistry
From the delicate floral engraving to the charming trio of hens, this sterling silver Towle ornament captures the magic, nostalgia, and craftsmanship that define the holiday season. It is more than a decoration—it’s a keepsake to be enjoyed and passed down for generations.
Creator:
Towle Silversmiths (Manufacturer)
Dimensions:
Height: 2.5 in (6.35 cm)Diameter: 2 in (5.08 cm)
Materials and Techniques:
Sterling Silver
Place of Origin:
United States
Period:
1970-1979
Date of Manufacture:
1978
Condition:
Excellent
