Gorham Sterling Silver Egyptian Revival Sugar Sifter Ladle Pharaoh c.1870
An elegant example of the Egyptian Revival aesthetic that captivated Victorian America, this Gorham sterling silver sugar sifter ladle is both a functional antique and a work of art. Gorham's three-mark hallmark, lion, anchor, and Gothic G, is legible on the reverse of the bowl, confirming both maker and sterling quality. Importantly, this piece carries no monogram.
THE HANDLE: The pharaoh's head finial is rendered in fine detail, complete with the nemes headdress and the sacred hawk of Horus spread-winged across the chest. The thin reeded handle transitions toward the bowl, punctuated by a beaded collar, and meets the bowl junction with ivy leaves in relief.
THE BOWL: The scalloped bowl features pierced teardrop drops that encircle the sides. The base features a pierced starburst and arrow medallion, both ornamental and functional for sifting powdered sugar over cakes and pastries in the Victorian fashion.
DETAILS:
- Maker: Gorham Manufacturing Co., Providence, Rhode Island
- Hallmark: Lion / Anchor / Gothic G — confirmed Gorham sterling
- Material: Sterling silver (.925)
- Date: circa 1870
- Length: 7½ inches
- Bowl diameter: 2¼ inches
- Monogram: None
CONDITION: Very good. Age-appropriate patina throughout. Pierced work is crisp and fully intact. No breaks, repairs or restorations.
This is an antique item — it has been used, loved, and has a history. Every effort has been made to describe it accurately. Please examine all photographs carefully, including the hallmark photo. Sold as shown.
