Salisbury Trefid Spoon, 1680

This is a rare silver trefid spoon made in Salisbury with a good clear set of marks. There are three marks to the reverse of the stem: two flowers and one anchor. These marks are illustrated in "Salisbury Silver and its Makers 1550-1700" by Tim Kent on page 48 and are referenced as often belonging to the "shaded roundel" group of spoons of 1675-85 belonging to the mid-Wessex area.

At just over 8" in length, this is a good-sized spoon and the fantastic quality is evidenced by the weight. It has a good sturdy feel in the hand with a generous, unworn bowl. Given the background and quality of this spoon, the price remains extremely competitive due to the fact that it has been later decorated (without this addition, the price would have been more likely £1500+). It originally began life as a laceback trefid spoon and the decoration to the reverse of the bowl and most of the front terminal is as made, but the flat chasing on the reverse stem and parts of the front stem dates from the mid/late19th century. The condition is excellent, although the final photo shows a 3mm stress fracture to one side of the trefoil terminal that probably dates from manufacture. Despite the later decoration, this remains a good looking spoon with a satisfying feel in the hand.