Caddy spoon, heart-shaped bowl

Date1803-1804

Artist/Maker Lawrence & Allen

MediumSilver (Sterling)

DimensionsOL: 3 1/4"; W of bowl: 1 1/2'

Credit LineGift of Mr. E. Palmer Taylor.

Object number1998-68

DescriptionShort curved handle with rounded tip; plain heart shaped bowl. Handle split at bowl. Handle with wriggle work border along split, wriggle work sprigs in center, and wriggle work pear shape at tip.
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; "f" date letter; maker's mark "L&A"
ProvenanceEx Coll: Mr. E. Palmer Taylor