Caddy spoon, form of leaf

Date1798-1799

Artist/Maker Elizabeth Morley

MediumSilver (Sterling)

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

Credit LineGift of Mr. E. Palmer Taylor

Object number1998-53

DescriptionCoiled wire handle; leaf shaped bowl. Bowl with wriggle work; chased wavy lines connecting at central line.
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; duty mark; date letter "C"; maker's mark "EM" in rectangle
ProvenanceEx Coll: Mr. E. Palmer Taylor