Berry spoon

1807-1808

Maker

Possibly William Eley and William Fearn

Measurements

6-5/8 in x 1-3/8 in x 3/4 in

Materials

Silver and gold wash

Credit Line

Historic Odessa Foundation, loaned by Donnan Sharp

Accession Number

2011.40

Inscription

An “M” date letter mark, accompanied by three other London hallmarks.  A maker's touch has "WE" over two other initials, possibly "WF," in relief within a square.  All marks are struck on the back of the handle.

Condition Notes

The protective coating on the spoon has deteriorated leading to tarnishing.

Comments

The ornately crafted spoon has an engraved handle with a down-turned tip.  An oval panel at the handle end appears never to have had an owner's initial engraved into it.  The engraved decoration along the handle displays acanthus leaves leading to a series of dots decreasing in size.  The spoon bowl has a shell-like edge enclosing fruits and leaves rendered in high relief.  This repoussé work was first hammered to shape from the underside.  The design was then sharpened from the top.

The spoon is similar to accession no. 2011.41.