A Set of Twenty-four American gold-mounted Silver Dinner Plates, S. Kirk & Son, Baltimore, MD, 1874 (7), and S. Kirk & Son. Co., (17), probably 1891

en suite with the preceeding, shaped circular with chased foliate rims applied in gold with Astor crest, the early also with monogram WA, the later with JJA

minor surface scratches on some, overall good condition, show little use
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.

On February 7, 1891 Caroline Astor summoned Henry Child Kirk, Jr. to 350 Fifth Avenue for an extensive order - that had to be finished before her son Vincent's marriage to Ava Willing on February 17th, just ten days away.  Craftsmen worked until 10 and 11 o'clock at night to finish the order, which was shipped to New York on the 14th.  The silver was part of the fully furnished house the Astors gave to the young couple.  Although specific mention of them is not found in the archives, the JJA plates to the existing model were probably ordered at this time.

We would like to thank Mark Letzer for his help in researching the Astor Kirk orders.