DS1998-0332; with 1998-52,-57,-74,-76,-85,-95,-96,-104,-107

Caddy spoon, form of shovel

Date1796-1797

Artist/Maker Joseph Taylor

MediumSilver (Sterling)

DimensionsOL: 2 3/4", Width of bowl: 1 1/2"

Credit LineGift of Mr. E. Palmer Taylor

Object number1998-51

DescriptionShort handle with rounded tip; shovel shaped bowl. Handle with wriggle work border and central wriggle work wavy line; wriggle work and bright cut shield at tip. Plain bowl.
Label TextDuring the eighteenth century drinking tea was an important social custom in England and America. The practice of serving it required both distinctive manners and specific equipment. Because tea was a valued commodity, the leaves were stored in a locked tea caddy to prevent theft. Tea caddy spoons were often purchased separately to scoop the loose leaves from the caddy to the teapot. Although they are mostly thought of as silver objects, caddy spoons were also made of other materials such as ivory, mother-of-pearl, and tortoiseshell. These little spoons were mass produced during this time in various shapes including shells, leaves, and the eagle’s wing.
MarkingsLion passant; monarch's head; anchor; "Y" date letter; maker's mark "IT" in rectangle
ProvenanceEx Coll: Mr. E. Palmer Taylor