Good day friends. I have a sterling silver spoon approximately the size of a demitasse, made by the Chester silversmiths Herbert Edward Barker & Frank Ernest Barker in 1907. Please see the following two pics showing the spoon and the hallmarks. The third picture is to illustrate my problem, which I hope you might have advice on.
Regards
Jan
My problem with this spoon is its uncommon bend when viewed edge-on. The condition of the spoon is immaculate; there’s no sign whatsoever of some jerk getting at it with a hammer or pliers to make this bend. Could it be as the maker produced it? It does feel a bit strange in the hand. Have you ever come across such a spoon? Please advise!
Regards
Jan
There is currently for sale on Ebay a similar spoon by Hukin & Heath (design attributed to Christopher Dresser) which has the same bowl shape. It’s difficult to tell from the pictures but it doesn’t seem to have quite such a curve as your spoon. I suspect that yours has been bent slightly at some point in its history.
Phil
Phil, thank you so much! With the info you led me to, I suspect my spoon was (i) bent, and (ii) altered. Please see the pic which makes me think my spoon is irreparebly damaged. I think that turned-up area has been cut away. Might you be in agreement?
Regards
Jan
Yes, I think you are right, Jan. It does not seem to be the same as the spoon I mentioned after all.
Phil
Thank you, Phil. I’m letting this spoon go.
Regards to all
Jan