1872 date letter, model number 125, chased as a craggy iceberg of oval form, the entire piece with applied handing "icicles," two cast polar bears are perched to each end of bowl, raised on a conforming foot.

6 5/8 x 11 x 7 1/4 in.

25.17 troy oz.

This important sculptural silver table ornament was designed in 1870 to commemorate the Alaska Purchase. The United States signed the treaty with Russia in 1867, effectively ending Russia's presence in North America and ensuring the United States access and power within the Asia-Pacific region.

Gorham Manufacturing Company, one of America's greatest and most inventive silver companies, saw an opportunity to create an object catering to wealthy patrons. The interest in the Arctic expeditions of the 1870s, along with the demand for ice harvested from the northern states, is perfectly captured in this impressive bowl.

Examples of this bowl are found in numerous prominent collections including the Baltimore Museum of Art, the Denver Art Museum and the High Museum of Art.

Later gilding (likely dating to the 1960s); else in good estate condition.

$20,000 - 30,000