This exquisite Art Nouveau sterling silver dish by William Durgin Silver Company, later absorbed by Gorham, is a masterful expression of the organic, flowing aesthetic that defined turn-of-the-century design. Shaped as an elongated, leaf-like form, the dish features softly undulating edges and a sculptural profile that feels grown rather than made—hallmarks of the Art Nouveau movement.
The surface is richly chased with sinuous, ribbon-like tendrils and stylized foliage, weaving across the interior in layered, overlapping currents that create extraordinary visual rhythm and depth. At one end, a boldly modeled floral spray rises in relief, forming both a decorative focal point and an elegant handle, complete with a pierced ring that adds lightness and architectural interest.
Turned over, the underside bears crisp marks—“GORHAM / STERLING / 104”—reflecting the pattern number and confirming its high-grade sterling construction after Durgin’s acquisition by Gorham. The fluidity of the design, paired with impeccable craftsmanship, places this piece firmly in the golden age of American Art Nouveau silver, circa the early 1900s.
Perfect as a serving dish, calling-card tray, or vanity accent, it would shine equally in a curated silver collection or as a statement piece on a refined table—especially with Valentine’s Day approaching, when its romantic, botanical motifs feel particularly fitting. Filled with chocolates, sugared almonds, or rose petals, it becomes a poetic expression of affection rendered in sterling.
A rare and highly decorative work—proof that in the Art Nouveau era, even the simplest dish was elevated into sculpture.
Creator:
William Durgin (Manufacturer)
Dimensions:
Height: 1 in (2.54 cm)
Width: 9 in (22.86 cm)
Depth: 4 in (10.16 cm)
Style:
Art Nouveau (Of the Period)
Materials and Techniques:
Sterling Silver
Place of Origin:
United States
Period:
1890-1899
Date of Manufacture:
circa 1890
Condition:
Excellent
This exquisite Art Nouveau sterling silver dish by William Durgin Silver Company, later absorbed by Gorham, is a masterful expression of the organic, flowing aesthetic that defined turn-of-the-century design. Shaped as an elongated, leaf-like form, the dish features softly undulating edges and a sculptural profile that feels grown rather than made—hallmarks of the Art Nouveau movement.
The surface is richly chased with sinuous, ribbon-like tendrils and stylized foliage, weaving across the interior in layered, overlapping currents that create extraordinary visual rhythm and depth. At one end, a boldly modeled floral spray rises in relief, forming both a decorative focal point and an elegant handle, complete with a pierced ring that adds lightness and architectural interest.
Turned over, the underside bears crisp marks—“GORHAM / STERLING / 104”—reflecting the pattern number and confirming its high-grade sterling construction after Durgin’s acquisition by Gorham. The fluidity of the design, paired with impeccable craftsmanship, places this piece firmly in the golden age of American Art Nouveau silver, circa the early 1900s.
Perfect as a serving dish, calling-card tray, or vanity accent, it would shine equally in a curated silver collection or as a statement piece on a refined table—especially with Valentine’s Day approaching, when its romantic, botanical motifs feel particularly fitting. Filled with chocolates, sugared almonds, or rose petals, it becomes a poetic expression of affection rendered in sterling.
A rare and highly decorative work—proof that in the Art Nouveau era, even the simplest dish was elevated into sculpture.
Creator:
William Durgin (Manufacturer)
Dimensions:
Height: 1 in (2.54 cm)
Width: 9 in (22.86 cm)
Depth: 4 in (10.16 cm)
Style:
Art Nouveau (Of the Period)
Materials and Techniques:
Sterling Silver
Place of Origin:
United States
Period:
1890-1899
Date of Manufacture:
circa 1890
Condition:
Excellent
Image 1 of 5
Image 2 of 5
Image 3 of 5
Image 4 of 5
Image 5 of 5