Exeter Silver Seal Top Spoon, c.1617 by Herman

A very rare James I period silver spoon made in Exeter and stamped with the full surname of the maker, Ralph Herman.

This is a handsome seal top spoon with a large, decorated baluster finial that retains its original gilding and is dot-prick engraved "I.G" to the flat terminal. The "A.B" and date "1617" to the reverse of the bowl appear to be engraved by the same hand and suggest that one of the initials relate to the giver and the other to the recipient. The date 1617 works perfectly with the start of Ralph Herman's silversmithing career as Tim Kent records him being active from circa 1615 until his death in 1661. Spoons made by this maker are scarce, perhaps because of his devotion to civic duty as he held many posts including that of Mayor of Exeter in 1652.

The spoon is in great condition and shows signs of its antiquity that adds to its character. The bowl is unworn (a touch sharp on the leading edge) and a little pitted to the interior. Overall this is a really fine spoon with lots of interesting features.