Scottish Silver Teaspoon with Thistle Engraving
Late Victorian — c. 1880–1900
- Material
- Sterling silver
- Use
- Teaspoon
- Century
- 19th century CE
- Size
- Large
- Provenance
- Owner's collection
Dimensions2 measurements
- Overall length
- 21 cm
- Overall width
- 4.8 cm
Catalogue Note
A handsome tablespoon of generous proportions, the handle enriched with a flowing acanthus scroll frame enclosing a prominent thistle — the national emblem of Scotland — rendered in fine relief. The bowl is broad and deeply curved, displaying a bright, well-maintained surface unmarred by significant wear. The handle tapers elegantly to a rounded terminal and shows even patina consistent with careful use over many decades. A refined example of late 19th-century Scottish flatware.
Spoon Lore
Thistle motifs became fashionable in Scottish silver during the Victorian era, particularly after Queen Victoria's well-publicized devotion to Scotland and Balmoral. Spoons bearing thistles were popular souvenirs of Edinburgh and the Highlands, and many were produced by makers such as James Tait and other Perth and Edinburgh silversmiths for both domestic use and the growing tourist market.
From the collection of
Thomas Aldridge