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Offered is an exceptionally fine 19th-century silver chain acquired from an estate sale, where it was identified as a Gale & Hayden (G&H Co.) Sterling Silver Chatelaine Chain dating to 1845-1849.
The sale house described the piece as:
“Made by Gale & Hayden (G&H Co) - signed and tested, SO FINE”
A handwritten identification accompanying the chain further states:
“Chatelaine SS chain – G&H Hallmark – Gale & Hayden 1845-1849 New York – 19th Century.”
The chain features a remarkably delicate double-chain construction with elongated decorative openwork stations, a distinctive geometric triangular junction and swivel-style clip. A small stamped hallmark/mark is present on the clip and is shown in the close-up photographs.
DETAILS
- Approximately 19 inches long when connected
- Approximately 9 grams
- Fine double-chain construction
- Elongated decorative/openwork stations
- Geometric triangular junction
- Swivel-style clip
- Hallmark/stamp present on clip
- Attractive aged silver patina
- sale house described the piece as signed and tested
- sale house attributed it to Gale & Hayden (G&H Co.)
- Accompanying identification dates it 1845-1849, New York, 19th Century
HISTORICAL ATTRIBUTION
Gale & Hayden was a documented New York silversmithing partnership active during the mid-19th century. Surviving period examples of Gale & Hayden silver are documented with G&H maker's marks.
The unusual construction of this chain suggests it was intended as a personal accessory. The sale house specifically identified it as a chatelaine chain. Because I have not independently established its precise original manner of use, I am presenting that identification as provided rather than representing it as a conventional necklace, watch chain or eyeglass chain.
IMPORTANT ATTRIBUTION & MATERIAL DISCLOSURE
The Gale & Hayden attribution, 1845-1849 dating, Sterling Silver identification, chatelaine identification, and statement that the piece was “signed and tested” are based upon the estate sale's description and the handwritten identification that accompanied the piece.
I have not independently authenticated the maker or repeated the sale house's metal testing. Detailed close-up photographs of the hallmark, clip and construction are included so collectors can examine the piece and markings for themselves.
The chain has not been polished by me and retains its existing aged surface and patina.
Please examine all photographs carefully, as they are an important part of the description.
An unusual early American silver accessory with an important sale-house attribution, worthy of consideration by collectors of Gale & Hayden silver, antique chatelaines, early American silver, Victorian accessories and 19th-century decorative arts.
Sold exactly as shown.
