An American Silver Art Nouveau Inkstand, Gorham Mfg. Co., Providence, RI

cast and chased after a Martelé design, the oval stand chased with crocuses and other flowers and whiplash scrolls, the front a spread-winged owl, the raised back with a female head with long flowing tresses below a candle sconce, fitted with two detachable inkwells

good condition, lacks glass liners
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.

The Martelé inkstand AMY-v finished on 15 July 1901 is likely the source of this design as reproduced by Larry Pristo, Martelé 950-1000 Fine Gorham's Nouveau Art Silver, 2002, p. 126.  Pristo also reproduces a bronze mold for this design, from which the present lot may well have been cast (p.29).  A Martelé variant of this model with a frog instead of an owl was sold in these rooms on 21 January 2011, lot 100.