Shell-back Mote Spoon, 1740

This is a first class example of a Georgian mote spoon with the bonus of a shell motif to the reverse of the terminal, that along with the maker's mark and style of piercing, helps date the spoon to circa 1740. Of further interest is the scarce addition to a mote spoon of original ownership initials - "EM" - which have been placed either side of the reverse bowl. The bowl is attractively pierced for skimming dust motes from the surface of tea and the stem has a diamond point tip to unblock teapot spouts. The two bottom struck hallmarks are a major benefit in being clear to read with "MD" maker's mark and a lion passant. Excellent condition throughout.