AN AMERICAN SILVER PLATE, FLETCHER & GARDINER, PHILADELPHIA, CIRCA 1825-35

circular, chased with flower and foliate rim, center engraved with arms, the base engraved JFG in a wreath.

Possibly Benjamin Gorham, Massachusetts
H.L. Chalfant, Antiques, April 1996

Fletcher and Gardiner 2007 no. 27

center with minor ding and surface scratches from use, overall good
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.

This plate may be part of the set recorded in correspondence between Thomas Fletcher and Benjamin Gorham in 1830 (reproduced Fennimore and Wagner, p. 152):
August 21, 1830 - "Your letter enclosing the sketch of an article of silver plate came to hand this morning.  I will have the work put in hand as soon as possible."

October 26, 1830 - "I regret that it was not in my power to complete the set of Plate you did me the favor to order, but I assure you that I am anxious to get it out of my hands as Mrs. G. can be to receive it."  The silversmith specified that he hoped to complete the silver and send it in two weeks.  Apparently the final product was satisfactory, as more was ordered the following year.

June 10, 1831 - "I very much regret that the delay has taken place respecting your plate but it has been utterly out of my power to prevent it.  If the Arms & Cypher had been left with me, this delay would not have happened, but when the drawing was sent back the Engraver was engaged on a piece of work which he stated he could not leave if I were to give him fifty dollars.  No other engraver in this city would undertake to engrave the set who could do it well enough to give satisfaction."