Accession Number

2009.008

Description

A fine large silver-plated serving tray made by the Gorham Manufacturing Company of Providence Rhode Island, USA, monogrammed 'B' in Gothic script on the centre of the serving surface, the tray with four ornate cast feet, the tray floor with engraved designs of acanthus and grape leaves, the raised border of the tray profusely decorated with ornately cast fruited-grape vines, the heavy cast handles comprised of acanthus leaf and shell motifs.

Narrative

This silver tray was originally owned by Elizabeth Hamilton Dunsmuir (Mrs. John Bryden) and her husband John Cowper Bryden. It is engraved with the letter “B” for Bryden. It was inherited by their daughter Joan Olive Bryden  (Mrs. Alastair Douglas Macdonald) who in turn gave it to her daughter, Catherine Henrietta Joan Macdonald who was the late donor’s wife. Despite being a petite woman, Catherine was known to her  family and friends and as "Porky". She was one of the three well-known Victoria-based Macdonald sisters, Catherine, Jean, and Elizabeth. These women donated several important objects to The Castle Society through its founding President, the late James K. Nesbitt.

The tray was made by the Gorham Manufacturing Company of Providence, Rhode Island. Gorham was one of the most prolific American makers of high-end silverware during the late 19th century. In fact, Gorham made the 103-piece set of silver flatware and serving pieces that Joan Olive Dunsmuir used in the Castle’s dining room. The Castle Society also owns a fine bronze pedestal made by Gorham, but like this tray, it is not original to Craigdarroch.

The large letter “B” on the tray stands for "Bryden". It may have been acquired by the Brydens for a special occassion, such as a housewarming gift for their new Victoria house named Dalzellowlie (completed 1894). It might also have been a 30th wedding anniversary gift given in 1898 (they married in 1868). Since Elizabeth Hamilton Dunsmuir (Mrs. John Cowper Bryden) died in 1901, the tray was not likley acquired by her husband after 1901. 

History of Use

This large silver-plated serving tray was originally owned by Robert and Joan Dunsmuir’s daughter Elizabeth Hamilton Dunsmuir (Mrs. John Bryden) and her husband John Bryden. It was given to their daughter Joan Olive Bryden who used it at her North Saanich, B.C. farm named Duntulm. Her daughter Catherine used it at her Saltspring Island, B.C. residence before it was donated to The Castle Society. 

Date

circa 1898

Dimensions

42.3 x 55.5 cm

Material

Metal, copper; Metal, silver

Serial Number

30756

Technique

Electroplated

Country of Origin

United States of America