Caddy spoon, shape of hand

Date1806-1807

Artist/Maker Joseph Taylor

MediumSilver (Sterling)

DimensionsOL: 2 1/2"; W of bowl: 1 3/8"

Credit LineGift of Mr. E. Palmer Taylor

Object number1998-74

DescriptionShort flared handle with scalloped tip; hand shaped bowl. Handle with wriggle work border and central design; greek key or fret wriggle work at tip. Bowl with chased finger forms; pair of wriggle work lines on reverse side at tips of fingers.
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; monarch's head; anchor; date letter "i"; maker's mark "IT" in oval
ProvenanceEx Coll: Mr. E. Palmer Taylor