Caddy spoon, scalloped shell bowl

Date1790-1791

Probably by John Blake

MediumSilver (Sterling)

DimensionsOL: 2 5/8" Width of bowl: 1 3/8"

Credit LineGift of Mr. E. Palmer Taylor

Object number1998-43

DescriptionShort handle with rounded tip; shallow chased shell bowl. Handle with bright cut and wriggle work border and oval at tip. Oval with inscription "T[?]C". Bowl with scalloped edges.
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.
Inscribed"T[?]C" on the handle
MarkingsLion passant; monarch's head; date mark "p"; maker's mark "IB" in rectangle.
ProvenanceEx Coll: Mr. E. Palmer Taylor