DS1998-0343. Shown: 1998-84, 98, 102, 103, 108

Caddy spoon, shovel-shaped bowl

Date1811-1812

Artist/Maker William Pugh

MediumSilver (Sterling)

DimensionsOL: 3 7/8"; w of bowl:1 1/4"

Credit LineGift of Mr. E. Palmer Taylor

Object number1998-98

DescriptionShort handle with pointed tip; fluted shovel bowl. Tip of handle with crest of falcon with wings extended. Inside of bowl divided into three sections by double pricked engraved lines; outside bands with three wriggle work leaves each, on matted background; inside band with one wriggle work sprig on 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; date letter "n"; maker's mark "WP[?]" in rectangle
ProvenanceEx Coll: Mr. E. Palmer Taylor