This exquisite, one-of-a-kind aperitif set belonged to my great-great-grandmother, Charlotte Elizabeth Blackington Waterhouse, a woman known in her time for her bold spirit, refined taste, and love of color. A member of a historically significant American family, Charlotte had these pieces custom made in the late 1800s, blending elegance with a playful touch that was uniquely hers.
The set includes two sterling silver trays by Reed & Barton, crafted in the ornate Windsor pattern (cataloged as X957), each paired with two removable trumpet vases by Gorham Sterling (#951). What makes this set truly extraordinary are the original colorful metal liners in vibrant jewel tones—emerald green, ruby, sapphire, and golden amber. These were selected or commissioned specifically by Charlotte to bring whimsy and brightness to her otherwise formal table.
Whether used for aperitifs, cordials, or as posy holders, this set was made not just for function but for delight. No two pieces in the world carry quite this combination of lineage, craftsmanship, and color—they are absolutely one-of-a-kind.
Details:
• Pair of Sterling Silver Reed & Barton “Windsor” trays (X957)
• Four Sterling Silver Gorham #951 trumpet-style holders
• Jewel-tone anodized metal or enameled liners (original)
• Circa 1880–1900
• Solid Sterling Silver (.925)
Provenance:
From the estate of Charlotte E.B. Waterhouse, a collector of bold and beautiful objects. Her signature flair for mixing refinement with imagination is fully present here.
This exquisite, one-of-a-kind aperitif set belonged to my great-great-grandmother, Charlotte Elizabeth Blackington Waterhouse, a woman known in her time for her bold spirit, refined taste, and love of color. A member of a historically significant American family, Charlotte had these pieces custom made in the late 1800s, blending elegance with a playful touch that was uniquely hers.
The set includes two sterling silver trays by Reed & Barton, crafted in the ornate Windsor pattern (cataloged as X957), each paired with two removable trumpet vases by Gorham Sterling (#951). What makes this set truly extraordinary are the original colorful metal liners in vibrant jewel tones—emerald green, ruby, sapphire, and golden amber. These were selected or commissioned specifically by Charlotte to bring whimsy and brightness to her otherwise formal table.
Whether used for aperitifs, cordials, or as posy holders, this set was made not just for function but for delight. No two pieces in the world carry quite this combination of lineage, craftsmanship, and color—they are absolutely one-of-a-kind.
Details:
• Pair of Sterling Silver Reed & Barton “Windsor” trays (X957)
• Four Sterling Silver Gorham #951 trumpet-style holders
• Jewel-tone anodized metal or enameled liners (original)
• Circa 1880–1900
• Solid Sterling Silver (.925)
Provenance:
From the estate of Charlotte E.B. Waterhouse, a collector of bold and beautiful objects. Her signature flair for mixing refinement with imagination is fully present here.
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