This engraved server boasts a profile portrait of George Washington near the terminus of its handle. Flatware featuring Washington’s likeness is believed to have first been made in 1832, coinciding with the centennial of his birth, and it experienced a resurgence in popularity between 1862 and 1875. During this period, Americans designed a wide range of medallion pattern flatware—a purely American expression which typically featured portrait busts drawn from classical antiquity. Employing Washington’s image in the same manner as those of classical heroes, manufacturers reinforced connections between the new Republic and the old. Their designs were symbolic of the nation’s reverence for the first president.

Perhaps intended for pudding or ice cream, this flat server was made by the respected New York firm, William Gale, Son, & Co. The elder Gale established a shop in 1821 and during his career partnered with a number of local silversmiths. He is best known for mechanizing the production of flatware. By 1855, William Gale, Son, & Co. maintained a staff of sixty-five men and ten boys. They are noted for having produced flatware of extremely high quality, and the masterful engraving on this server is a testament to the firm’s skill.