This exquisite sterling silver pierced heart-shaped dish is a dazzling example of late-19th- or early-20th-century American decorative silver, combining romantic form with virtuoso metalwork—and just in time for Valentine’s Day. Shaped as a softly contoured heart, the bowl is elevated on three small bun-style feet, giving it a graceful lift from the table while adding sculptural presence and stability.
The border erupts in lavish repoussé scrolls, blossoms, and shell-like flourishes, framing a finely pierced lattice ground of cross-shaped and oval cutwork that allows candlelight to shimmer through the surface. Rising from this openwork field are boldly modeled foliate sprays that sweep inward toward the center, creating a dramatic contrast between airy negative space and richly worked silver.
At the heart of the dish sits a smooth, polished cartouche engraved with an elegant interlaced monogram, surrounded by swelling rococo scrolls that heighten the sense of depth and movement. The underside bears a crisp “STERLING 44302” mark, confirming both precious-metal content and production numbering.
Originally intended for serving sweets, bonbons, or nuts—or simply displayed as a centerpiece in a formal dining room—this piece feels especially fitting for February entertaining. Filled with chocolates, sugared almonds, or strawberries, it would make a spectacular Valentine’s Day accent, whether on a candlelit table for two or as part of an elegant dessert spread.
A true conversation piece—and perhaps the most charming way to say be mine in sterling silver.
Creator:
Gorham Manufacturing Company (Manufacturer)
Dimensions:
Height: 2.5 in (6.35 cm)
Width: 6 in (15.24 cm)
Depth: 6 in (15.24 cm)
Materials and Techniques:
Sterling Silver
Place of Origin:
United States
Period:
1910-1919
Date of Manufacture:
circa 1910
Condition:
Excellent
This exquisite sterling silver pierced heart-shaped dish is a dazzling example of late-19th- or early-20th-century American decorative silver, combining romantic form with virtuoso metalwork—and just in time for Valentine’s Day. Shaped as a softly contoured heart, the bowl is elevated on three small bun-style feet, giving it a graceful lift from the table while adding sculptural presence and stability.
The border erupts in lavish repoussé scrolls, blossoms, and shell-like flourishes, framing a finely pierced lattice ground of cross-shaped and oval cutwork that allows candlelight to shimmer through the surface. Rising from this openwork field are boldly modeled foliate sprays that sweep inward toward the center, creating a dramatic contrast between airy negative space and richly worked silver.
At the heart of the dish sits a smooth, polished cartouche engraved with an elegant interlaced monogram, surrounded by swelling rococo scrolls that heighten the sense of depth and movement. The underside bears a crisp “STERLING 44302” mark, confirming both precious-metal content and production numbering.
Originally intended for serving sweets, bonbons, or nuts—or simply displayed as a centerpiece in a formal dining room—this piece feels especially fitting for February entertaining. Filled with chocolates, sugared almonds, or strawberries, it would make a spectacular Valentine’s Day accent, whether on a candlelit table for two or as part of an elegant dessert spread.
A true conversation piece—and perhaps the most charming way to say be mine in sterling silver.
Creator:
Gorham Manufacturing Company (Manufacturer)
Dimensions:
Height: 2.5 in (6.35 cm)
Width: 6 in (15.24 cm)
Depth: 6 in (15.24 cm)
Materials and Techniques:
Sterling Silver
Place of Origin:
United States
Period:
1910-1919
Date of Manufacture:
circa 1910
Condition:
Excellent
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