Material

iron

Dimensions

Overall: 14 1/2 x 2 5/8in. (36.8 x 6.7cm)

Creation Date

circa 1750 – 1800

Description

Wrought iron spoon of common, period "table spoon" form but of much larger proportions. Elongated oval bowl with round-sectioned handle which flattens out and broadens as it moves away from the bowl. The widened portion of the handle has a median ridge on the top face and terminates in an upturned end which is pierced for hanging.

Combining the form of a common 18th century eating spoon with the scale and strength of a ladle, this beautifully wrought utensil was a more sophisticated relative of the latter. Used to stir a pot of soup or stew, it could also be employed to baste a roast or to stuff a bird. It does have its drawbacks, however; with a smaller and shallower bowl, it wasn't as useful as a ladle for serving liquid based foods.

Provenance

The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation. Museum Purchase. Provenance: Windsor White, Jr., Duxbury, MA

Kitchen Artifact ID

Acc. No. 1954-683