Caddy spoon, shell bowl

DateCa. 1791

Maker Hester Bateman (1708 - 1794)

MediumSilver (Sterling)

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

Credit LineGift of Mr. E. Palmer Taylor

Object number1998-45

DescriptionSilver caddy spoon, handle with bright cut and "TSH" inscribed on it, shell bowl
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"TSH" on handle
MarkingsLion passant, monarch's head, "k" date mark, maker's mark "HB" in script
ProvenanceEx Coll: Mr. E. Palmer Taylor