Art Nouveau Engraved Silverplate Trophy With Oak Leaves and Acorns

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Description

On offer is a trophy shaped in a classic "loving cup" style. Going back centuries, the shape is identifiable by … Read more On offer is a trophy shaped in a classic "loving cup" style. Going back centuries, the shape is identifiable by its deep bowl and twin sweeping handles, ready to be passed around at celebrations for shared drinking.
Created in Art Nouveau style, which peaked between 1890 and 1910, the trophy’s organic, wavy, scalloped rim gives the metal a fluid, plant-like appearance. Additionally, the base and handles are heavily ornamented with molded oak leaves, twigs and acorns, toned slightly bronze. In classical iconography and corporate award design, the oak tree and its acorns universally symbolize strength, longevity, endurance and deep-rooted stability—perfectly aligning with a corporate prize celebrating achievement and growth.
The engraving on the electroplated silverplate reads: "First Prize Awarded to Mr. Adolph C. Meyer, Annual Outing of Employees, Meyer Brothers Drug Co., June 20, 1912." Founded in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and later headquartered in a massive facility in St. Louis, Missouri, Meyer Brothers Drug Co. was one of the largest wholesale drug manufacturing firms in the US during the Gilded Age and Progressive Era. They manufactured everything from prescription compounds to popular consumer goods like cosmetics, soaps, and home remedies. Adolph C. Meyer was a key executive within the family-run corporation, eventually serving as the firm's 3rd Vice President.
The underside of the base shows the technical specifications stamped by the manufacturer "9133": This is a specific factory design/catalog number used by the silversmithing company to catalog this specific mold.
During the early 20th century, major corporations hosted massive "Annual Outings" or picnics for employees to boost morale. These events featured highly competitive athletic events (such as baseball games, track events, or rowing), where premium silver-plated trophies like this loving cup were presented as top honors, which hopefully Mr. Meyer fully deserved.
Signature/Maker’s mark: Nonexistent. See less