Caddy spoon, scoop bowl

Date1802-1803

Possibly by Cocks & Bettridge

MediumSilver (Sterling); bone

DimensionsOL: 3 1/4", Width of bowl: 1"

Credit LineGift of Mr. E. Palmer Taylor

Object number1998-63

DescriptionThin green stained bone handle; flattened scoop shaped bowl. Handle fitted into long silver socket. Bowl with bright cut and wriggle work sheild with initials "JL" inside.
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"JL" on bowl
MarkingsLion passant; monarch's head; anchor; "e" date mark; maker's mark "C[?]&B" in rectangle
ProvenanceEx Coll: Mr. E. Palmer Taylor