posted 10-17-2000 10:37 AM            

Here is the mark of a highly regarded Philadelphia firm, Chaudron's and Rasch. Though the firm was short lived, it was well documented, so we know that the partnership lasted from only 1809-1812. Its influence on American silver, though, was lasting.

Those of you with an interest in devlopment of flatware forms will notice that this is a rather conventional "fiddle with fins" pattern. The interesting thing is that 1809-1812 is very early for this form in America. Most American silversmiths only adopted the fiddle with fins in the 1820's.

The main point here is that the "fiddle with fins" was very much a French style, and that Chaudron's and Rasch were one of the first to bring current French styles to America. This French influence can be attributed to Simon Chaudron, who was indeed French. For years it was speculated that Anthony Rasch was French, but he was actually German. It appears that he picked up the French styles from his partnership with Chaudron, then continued to use them for the remainder of his career.

Living in the Philadelphia area, I have been able to see a number of pieces from Chaudron's and Rasch. All of them show a distinctly French character. I have seen C&R flatware in the distinctive "French Fiddle", with tapering shoulders, a very rounded end and a slight ridge down the front of the handle. On first glance, they look just like French flatware. I wish I had a picture to show.

At any rate, this brief partnership was instrumental in spreading the French taste in America. They produced very distinctive items, with a very French flair. It is no wonder that Anthony Rasch found a warm reception for his work in New Orleans, where he eventually settled.

By the way, if you have never seen this mark, the STER. AMERI. MAN. banner mark apparently means Sterling of American Manufacture. It is certainly an interesting mark of quality!

posted 09-22-2008 12:15 AM            

Not long after the War of 1812 a service of plate consisting of an urn and a pitcher was presented to the widow of Captain James Lawrence by the citizens of Philadelphia. The maker was Edward Chauldron.