Tiffany Seahorse Centerpiece Trophy Bowl for New York Yacht Club

Japonesque sterling silver trophy bowl. Made by Tiffany & Co. in New York. Round and curved. Five seahorses applied to spot-hammered ground. On underside, engraved presentation: “Annual Regatta / New York Yacht Club / June 15th 1882. / First Class Centre-board / Schooner Prize, / Won by / Yacht Montauk”.

Samuel Reynolds Platt (1828-1884), a manufacturer of mowing equipment, commissioned the Montauk, which was furnished with every comfort including electric bells for summoning servants as well as taps offering both fresh and salt water.

The bowls rests on three beaded ball supports, possibly meant to represent sea urchins. Alternatively, they might suggest ball bearings, an allusion to the industrial fortune that made possible a vessel of such luxe and speed.

Fully marked including maker’s stamp, pattern no. 4993 (first produced in 1877), and director’s letter M (1873-91). Very good condition. Dimensions: H 7 x D 13 1/2 in. Weight: 58.5 troy ounces. #CC209