John T. Vansant Manufacturing Company (Phildadelphia, 1881-1884) sterling silver entree dish and cover in the Aesthetic taste, oblong form with domed top, naturalistic branch form top and side handles, atop a base with four bracket feet, the surface covered in repousse ornamentation including flowers, gingko leaves, and fans. Marked on underside with pseudohallmarks for Vansant and stamped "English Sterling 925-1000" to denote silver content equal to that made in England. 5 3/4" H x 10 1/2" W x 6 1/2" D. 34.75 oz troy. Circa 1880. Note: Two covered dishes nearly identical to this one (but with hammered top) are in the collections of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, and the High Museum, Atlanta. The High's description notes "Though a short-lived firm, [the John T. Vansant Company] catered to a sophisticated clientele. American silver in the Aesthetic taste is rare". Provenance: Private Middle Tennessee collection, acquired from the Amburgey Estate, Murfreesboro, Tennessee many years ago. (Additional high-resolution photos are available at www.caseantiques.com.)