Cromwellian Silver Puritan Spoon, 1658 William Cary

This is a fine example of an antique silver puritan spoon with good London hallmarks for the Commonwealth period.

The spoon has a diagnostic plank-like handle with the hallmarks spread along the reverse side. The marks include an excellent example of the WC maker's mark for William Cary. The spoon has the typical deep, rounded bowl of this design and period with a clear leopard's head crowned stamp. 

The spoon is in fine condition with a good antique patina and unworn bowl; noting that there is some scratching towards the tip of the stem.

William Cary had been apprenticed to his father Daniel in 1630 and went on to be master to later spoonmakers such as Thomas Venables (1642) and John King (1653).

Following on from the Civil War and the removal of the monarchy, Oliver Cromwell became Lord Protector of the Commonwealth of England, Scotland and Ireland in 1653. He died in September 1658 and was succeded by his son Richard.