5-Pronged Fork, Chester 1802 by G Lowe

There are several unusual features with this Old English silver table fork, not least of which is the rare presence of Georgian period Chester hallmarks.

The maker, George Lowe, was either unaware of the latest fashions or was innovative, because this fork most unusually has five tines and it needs a double-take to notice the difference from standard 4-pronged forks. Old English pattern forks generally turn up at the terminal in the Hanoverian style (as opposed to the spoons which turn down), this was an ergonomic feature to make the handling of the fork more comfortable, however Lowe has made this fork in the manner of a spoon.

Early 19th century Chester hallmarked flatware generally lack the three wheatsheaf city arms mark, but the presence of the "GL" maker's mark is a giveaway and although superficially similar, close scrutiny clear shows that these are not London hallmarks.

All in all a most interesting Georgian silver dinner fork that remains in excellent condition.