Images(4)

Ladle

Dateca.1830-1845

Maker John H. Palethorp

OriginAmerica, Pennsylvania, Philadelphia

MediumPewter

DimensionsOverall: 13"; Diameter of bowl: 3 5/8"

Credit LineGift of Scott and Debra Duncan

Object number2022-195

DescriptionPewter soup ladle with a downturned fiddle-tipped handle with pointed shoulders, and a bulbous rounded end soldered to a round bowl reinforced by a moulded lip.
Label TextPewter, as a softer metal, is prone to bending and wasn't often the best choice for a thin-handled utensil. By the second quarter of the 19th century a harder, more rigid pewter alloy, often referred to as "Brittania" metal came into common use, and was far more suitable for items like ladles. This graceful example, by a member of a prominent succession of prominent Philadelphia pewtersmiths, exemplifies this.
InscribedTop of handle tip engraved "SM" in stylized script.
MarkingsBack of handle stamped "PALETHORPE'S" in relief within a conforming and crenelated rectangle.
ProvenancePurchased from Wayne & Phyllis Hilt.