A beautifully crafted sterling silver nail buffer by Gorham Silversmiths, dated 1898, exemplifying the opulent design sensibility of America’s Gilded Age. The piece features a domed, hand-chased repoussé surface, richly decorated with scrolling foliage, flowers, and fluid rococo-inspired motifs that showcase Gorham’s exceptional silverwork at the turn of the century.
The repousse detailing, raised in high relief, gives the surface depth and texture, catching the light across its polished contours. The underside holds the original chamois buffer, still securely attached, with the leather showing a soft natural patina consistent with gentle age and authenticity.
The handle’s ergonomic curve fits comfortably in the hand, demonstrating Gorham’s attention to both aesthetic beauty and functional design. Its compact 4-inch size and 2-inch height make it a perfect example of the fine personal grooming accessories fashionable among upper-class households in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Creator:
Gorham Manufacturing Company (Manufacturer)
Dimensions:
Height: 2 in (5.08 cm)
Width: 4 in (10.16 cm)
Depth: 2 in (5.08 cm)
Materials and Techniques:
Sterling Silver
Place of Origin:
United States
Period:
1890-1899
Date of Manufacture:
1898
Condition:
Excellent
A beautifully crafted sterling silver nail buffer by Gorham Silversmiths, dated 1898, exemplifying the opulent design sensibility of America’s Gilded Age. The piece features a domed, hand-chased repoussé surface, richly decorated with scrolling foliage, flowers, and fluid rococo-inspired motifs that showcase Gorham’s exceptional silverwork at the turn of the century.
The repousse detailing, raised in high relief, gives the surface depth and texture, catching the light across its polished contours. The underside holds the original chamois buffer, still securely attached, with the leather showing a soft natural patina consistent with gentle age and authenticity.
The handle’s ergonomic curve fits comfortably in the hand, demonstrating Gorham’s attention to both aesthetic beauty and functional design. Its compact 4-inch size and 2-inch height make it a perfect example of the fine personal grooming accessories fashionable among upper-class households in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Creator:
Gorham Manufacturing Company (Manufacturer)
Dimensions:
Height: 2 in (5.08 cm)
Width: 4 in (10.16 cm)
Depth: 2 in (5.08 cm)
Materials and Techniques:
Sterling Silver
Place of Origin:
United States
Period:
1890-1899
Date of Manufacture:
1898
Condition:
Excellent
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