Loving Cup

Gorham Manufacturing Company, Providence, RI
Date: 1907
Maker: Gorham Manufacturing Company, Providence, RI
Dimensions: 15 1/4 H x 7 Dia. at base
Materials: Silver, ivory
Marks: Engraved, on reverse: FROM HIS / GRATEFUL STUDENTS to the / BEST Of TEACHERS, Presented to / Albert VanderVeer, M.D. / May 2nd 1907 / ALBANY, / N.Y.
Credit: Gift of the Sons of Dr. Albert VanderVeer
Accession Number: x1940.445
Comments: This "loving" (or trophy) cup was presented to Dr. Albert Vander Veer, a legendary figure at Albany Medical College and Albany hospital, at one of the largest banquets ever held in the city. The use of ivory to complement the sterling silver is typical of the Athenic line of silver vessels produced by the major manufacturer Gorham. The body is framed by naturalistic plant life, while the ivory serpent-shaped handles recall the sacred serpents that form part of the traditional physician's emblem, the caduceus.