Fish fork engraved on both handle and prongs. On prongs: abstract and floral pattern; handle decorated with pagoda and trees in landscape; terminal with scalloped edge.

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Object Timeline

2006	We acquired this object. We photographed this object. We exhibited this object.
2015	We photographed this object.
2020	You found it!

Fish Fork (USA), 1875–80

This is a Fish fork. It was manufactured by Gorham Manufacturing Company. It is dated 1875–80 and we acquired it in 2006. Its medium is silver. It is a part of the Product Design and Decorative Arts department.

This fish fork is a very good example of the early use of Japonism in American silver and of fish utensils. This piece, together with its companion knife, would be a great addition to the collection to illustrate both high style and food-driven shapes.stiers.

This object was donated by Historical Design Inc.. It is credited Gift of Historical Design Inc..

The stand is square; a curved stepped edge is ornamented with a repeating design of repousse leaves and berries, against a chased background of overlapping leaves. From opposite corners rise the support brackets for the kettle, formed of tapered curved bands with a trefoil top. The supports are decorated with repousse designs of vines, leaves, and butterflies, arranged asymmetrically. The square body of the teapot is similarly decorated. A flush-hinged flat lid, a foliate knop, a curved spout with foliate terminal, and a square handle fitted with ivory insulators, are all similarly decorated. The stand is fitted with a plain, square spirit lamp with removable wick holder/cover.

Tea Kettle And Stand (USA), 1888
cast, chased, repoussé silver, ivory.
Gift of Mrs. Norris W. Harkness.
1980-20-1-a/d

Teapot, 1888
cast, chased, repoussé silver, ivory.
Gift of Mrs. Norris W. Harkness.
1980-20-2

Coffee Pot, 1888
cast, chased, repoussé silver, ivory.
Gift of Mrs. Norris W. Harkness.
1980-20-3

Our curators have highlighted 3 objects that are related to this one.

Sugar Bowl And Lid, 1888
cast, chased, repoussé silver.
Gift of Mrs. Norris W. Harkness.
1980-20-4-a,b

Waste Bowl, 1888
cast, chased, repoussé silver.
Gift of Mrs. Norris W. Harkness.
1980-20-6

Cream Pitcher, 1888
silver.
Gift of Mrs. Norris W. Harkness.
1980-20-5

Cite this object as

Fish Fork (USA), 1875–80; Manufactured by Gorham Manufacturing Company (United States); silver; Gift of Historical Design Inc.; 2006-30-5

This object was previously on display as a part of the exhibition Feeding Desire: Design and the Tools of the Table, 1500-2005.

Short URL http://cprhw.tt/o/2DSSk/
Accession Number 2006-30-5
Object ID 18706759