An American Silver Suite of Cigar Vase, Cigarette Vase and Match Vase, Martelé, Gorham Mfg. Co., Providence, RI, 1902

each of baluster form with flared undulating rims, cast and chased with mermaids surrounded by swirling waves and exotic foliage

a little wear to hight spots, overall good condition
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

According to Gorham's records, cigar vase B1886 was completed on 9 January 1902 and was part of a larger six-piece smoker's set (B1885-B1890). This piece was raised in seven hours and required an additional five hours of chasing. The net factory price upon completion was $27. Smoker's set B1885-B1890 is related to another Martelé six-piece smoker's set (AIA-AIF), which is illustrated in Pristo's Martelé, Gorham's Art Nouveau Silver, p. 126. Smoker's set AIA-AIF features the same mermaid decoration and was completed 7-9 January 1902. Gorham's archives indicate that this set was chased by Robert Bain, who is considered Gorham's most talented chaser. Bain was the highest paid chaser at Gorham and only worked on special projects, including many of the works exhibited at the 1904 St. Louis Exposition.