Gorham sterling silver centerpiece, likely a presentation piece, owned by Civil War Navy Admiral John Ancrum Winslow (1811-1873), commander of the USS Kearsage. The body is engraved on one side with his monogram and "1864," the year the Kearsarge sank the CSS Alabama off the coast of Cherbourg, France, in one of the Union's most exciting and significant Naval victories. The American Classical Revival centerpiece features an oval gilt-washed bowl centered on each side by masks, with dart banding at edges and stylized anthemion handles terminating in rosettes, and is supported on a trumpet-shaped pedestal flanked by two figural cherub caryatids holding floral swags, atop a plinth base. Marked on underside for Gorham (lion, anchor, G) and stamped 200. Circa 1864. 17"W x 10"H x 9"D. 53.03 oz troy. Note: the monogram is the exact same used on the silver tea service presented to Admiral Winslow in 1864 by the citizens of Roxbury, Mass. (see lot 566; ref. "Death of Admiral Winslow," The Pittston Gazette, Oct. 16, 1873), raising the possibility this piece may have been part of that presentation gift.

PROVENANCE: Private TN collection, acquired March, 2023 from direct descendant of USS Kearsarge commander Admiral John Ancrum Winslow (1811-1873) through his only surviving grandson Brig. Genl. Eben Eveleth Winslow, along with other items in this auction.

CONDITION: Excellent condition.