Images(4)

Tablespoon

Dateca. 1777-1791

Maker Joseph Richardson Jr. (1752 - 1831)

Maker Nathaniel Richardson (1754 - 1827)

OriginAmerica, Pennsylvania, Philadelphia

MediumSilver

DimensionsOverall Length: 8 3/4”; Width of Bowl: 1 11/16"; Depth of Bowl: 1/2"

Credit LineGift of Kay Justice Ridinger in memory and honor of Charles W. Ridinger III

Object number2021-112

DescriptionTablespoon with a rounded, upturned, and thickened handle tip which meets the oval bowl with a round drop and an eleven-lobed shell.
Label TextWhen Joseph Richardson, Sr. retired from the trade in 1777, his sons Joseph Jr. and Nathaniel, took over the family silversmithing business. The brothers worked in partnership until 1790 when Nathaniel left to pursue the ironmongery and hardware trade. After the partnership dissolved in 1790 Joseph Jr. worked alone, and served as the second Assayer of the United States Mint from 1795 to 1830.
InscribedEngraved “T·S” over “E*S” in block on the back of the handle end.
MarkingsMarked twice with " I•NR" (NR are conjoined) in relief within a rectangle on the back of the handle.