American Gorham Sterling Silver Classic Gadrooned Water Pitcher from Prestigious NYC Luxury Retailer, Black Starr & Frost, & Respected American Silversmith Watson Co., 4 Pints, 835 Grams, Circa 1900

This antique American sterling silver pitcher is a substantial and elegant example of circa 1900 tableware associated with the prestigious New York luxury retailer Black, Starr & Frost. The pitcher is marked on the base “BLACK STARR & FROST GORHAM,” along with “STERLING SILVER,” a capacity mark of “4 PINTS,” and production number “U2 70.” It also bears three small hallmarks consisting of a lion, a shield with the letter “W,” and a crown with a cross, marks associated with the respected American silversmith Watson Company of Attleboro, Massachusetts. Watson was known for producing fine sterling hollowware during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, and pieces were sometimes manufactured for prominent retailers such as Black, Starr & Frost.

Founded in 1810 in New York City, Black, Starr & Frost became one of America’s most prominent jewelers and luxury silver retailers, supplying high quality goods to an affluent clientele throughout the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. In 1929 the firm was acquired by Gorham Manufacturing Company, one of the largest and most respected American silver manufacturers. After this merger, pieces retailed through the company were often stamped “Black Starr & Frost Gorham,” reflecting the association between the historic New York retailer and the renowned Providence, Rhode Island silver manufacturer.

The pitcher stands approximately 9.5 inches tall and weighs about 835 grams, indicating a substantial amount of sterling silver. With a marked capacity of four pints, it was designed as a large serving pitcher suitable for water or other beverages at the dining table. Its generous scale and classic form reflect the quality craftsmanship typical of American sterling hollowware produced around the turn of the twentieth century.

Condition is consistent with age and careful use, but overall it remains an impressive piece and decorative example of antique American silver associated with two historic names in the luxury jewelry and silver trade.

Dimensions: height 9.5″ x diameter of base 4.5″ x max diameter 5.5″ , 8 1/2 inches wide from handle to spout – weight 835 grams