GORHAM STERLING SILVER AMERICAN OPTICAL COMPANY PRESENTATION LARGE TROPHY, tall ovoid well with gilt-washed interior featuring embossed writing to both sides, having two angular handles, raised on square base with tapered stem, one side featuring the American Optical Co. logo above an etched view of the factory in Southbridge, MA and text that reads, "PRESENTED TO GEORGE W. WELLS PRESIDENT ON THE 40TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE INCORPORATION OF THE AMERICAN OPTICAL COMPANY BY HEADS OF DEPARTMENTS OF MORE THAN 10 YEARS' SERVICE A TOKEN OF RESPECT AND APPRECIATION 1869-1909", the opposite side featuring a list of 33 names. Base with the three Gorham pseudo hallmarks above "STERLING / 11 A / 15 PINTS" and an arrow date mark for 1909. Total weight: 77.3 ozt. Gorham Mfg. Co., Providence, RI. Circa 1909. 15 3/4" HOA, 10" D rim.
Provenance: Property of a Virginia gentleman.
Catalogue Note: George Washington Wells (1839-1912) founded the American Optical Company, or "the A.O." of Southbridge, MA, one of the largest and most respected optical companies in the world. Wells, who apprenticed at Robert H. Cole & Co., became skilled in mechanics and eventually bought a big textile mill to convert into an optical company. During his time, he developed and patented 26 different tools for creating lenses and milling spectacle frames. American Optical Company continued to flourish after Wells' death and is still in existence today.
Very good to excellent overall condition with minor wear, surface scratches, and nicks, a few minor dents, gilt-washed finish with some losses.