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Maidenhead spoon
English (London ?)
about 1570
Object Place: Europe, London (?), England
Medium/Technique
Silver
Dimensions
W. of bowl 4.8 cm (1 7/8 in.); L. 16.2 cm (6 3/8 in.); Weight 31.9 gm (1 oz)
Credit Line
Theodora Wilbour Fund in memory of Charlotte Beebe Wilbour
Accession Number47.1429
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsEurope
ClassificationsSilver
DescriptionThe spoon has a fig-shaped bowl and a rectangular stem. The finial is in the shape of a bust of a maiden. The bowl and stem of the spoon are forged from a single piece. The maidenhead finial is cast and attached to the stem with a lap-join. Traces of gilding remain on the finial. The bowl has been repaired.
Signed
CW or WC
ProvenanceH. D. Ellis, Esq., Lt.-Col. J. Benett-Stanford, Tisbury, Wiltshire. November 14, 1935, Sotheby & Co., London, lot 226, sold. J. P. Morgan (1867–1943), New York; October 30, 1947, Parke-Bernet, lot 135, purchased by the MFA with the Theodora Wilbour Fund in memory of Charlotte Beebe Wilbour for $110. (Accession Date: November 13, 1947)