Caddy spoon, oval bowl
Date1802-1803
Possibly by
Thomas Wallis II
OriginEngland, London
MediumSilver
DimensionsOL: 3", Width of bowl: 1 5/8"
Credit LineGift of Mr. E. Palmer Taylor
Object number1998-64
DescriptionShort thin handle with rounded tip; set at right angle to oval bowl. Handle with wriggle work and bright cut geometric pattern; wriggle work and bright cut pear shape at tip with initials "E I" inside. Bowl with wriggle work in oval pattern.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.Inscription(s)"E I" on handleMark(s)Lion passant; monarch's head; "G" date mark; maker's mark "TW" [?]ProvenanceEx Coll: Mr. E. Palmer Taylor
