Napkin ring (part of child's set)

Silver spoons, cups, and bells had long been traditional presentation gifts for children. By the last quarter of the 1800s, children’s ware had become a special category for silver manufacturers and was often featured in special sections of company catalogues, which offered a variety of individual pieces as well as matching boxed sets. This Gothic-revival silver cup by Gorham and its related but unmatched and unmarked napkin ring (possibly by Gorham) have been personalized with inscriptions that allude to the tender affection and regard for their young recipient.

This text has been adapted from "Silver of the Americas, 1600-2000," edited by Jeannine Falino and Gerald W.R. Ward, published in 2008 by the MFA. Complete references can be found in that publication.