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17th-Century Silver Apostle Spoon
17th-Century Silver Apostle Spoon
17th-Century Silver Apostle Spoon
17th-Century Silver Apostle Spoon
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17th-Century Silver Apostle Spoon

  • This exceptionally rare apostle spoon dates to the early 17th century
  • These were often bespoke baptismal gifts, inspiring the saying "born with a silver spoon"
  • This spoon is crowned by St. James the Greater, identified by his pilgrim staff
  • Similar apostle spoons from the period are held in major institutions such as the British Museum
  • Get complete item description here
$5,500
Item No. 31-9319

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Description
Apostle Spoon
Hallmarked London, 1620

This exceptionally rare apostle spoon dates to the early 17th century, a remarkable treasure emblematic of a bygone tradition. First appearing during the 16th century, these spoons were given as baptismal gifts from godparents in very wealthy families, inspiring the time-honored saying, "Born with a silver spoon in the mouth."

A child's given spoon was typically adorned with the figure of their patron saint, a bespoke gift that. . .
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Apostle Spoon
Hallmarked London, 1620

This exceptionally rare apostle spoon dates to the early 17th century, a remarkable treasure emblematic of a bygone tradition. First appearing during the 16th century, these spoons were given as baptismal gifts from godparents in very wealthy families, inspiring the time-honored saying, "Born with a silver spoon in the mouth."

A child's given spoon was typically adorned with the figure of their patron saint, a bespoke gift that would have been cherished for life. This spoon is crowned by Saint James the Greater, identified by his pilgrim staff and halo overhead. Featuring a deep, fig-shaped bowl, the spoon's design is elegantly refined and features period hallmarks. Similar apostle spoons from this period are held in prestigious museum collections, including the famed British Museum in London. This remarkable James I-era apostle spoon was part of the iconic Red McCombs collection, which has been highly publicized and studied.

7 3/8" length x 2" width

Provenance:
M.S. Rau, New Orleans
Red McCombs Collection, Texas
M.S. Rau, New Orleans
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17th-Century Silver Apostle Spoon
Period: 17th Century
Origin: England
Type: Other
Depth: 7.38 in. (18.73 cm)
Width: 2.0 in. (5.08 cm)
Height: 0.63 in. (1.59 cm)
17th-Century Silver Apostle Spoon
A History of Flatware

Winthrop Silver Flatware Service By Tiffany & Co.   Ever wondered, " Who invented the spoon? " If so, you may be interested in learning more about flatware and stainless steel cutlery history....

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Buy with Confidence

At M.S. Rau, we are committed to building a long-term, rewarding relationship with each and every client. That’s why your purchase is backed by our 125% guarantee.

Learn More

The M.S. Rau Difference

The M.S. Rau Difference

The M.S. Rau Difference

Our philosophy has always been to offer clients only the very finest antiques, works of art and jewelry, and to back every transaction with the highest level of customer service. Earning your trust and delivering only the very best pieces is our top priority.

-Bill Rau, Third-Generation Owner

Fine Art

M.S. Rau is committed to offering fine art of the highest caliber and we seek paintings and sculpture by historically renowned artists, often with impressive provenance. The large majority of our works of art come from private. . .

M.S. Rau is committed to offering fine art of the highest caliber and we seek paintings and sculpture by historically renowned artists, often with impressive provenance. The large majority of our works of art come from private collections; many are fresh to the market. Founded on Bill Rau’s expertise in the field, our specialisms range from Old Master pictures to Modern Art masterpieces. We regularly exhibit Dutch, Flemish, and Italian Old Masters, Academic, Orientalist, Barbizon, Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, Maritime & Sporting, British Neoclassical and American Illustration.

Our experienced fine art consultants offer personalized and confidential fine art consultation services to all clients. Whether you are looking to begin collecting art, grow an existing collection, or redefine your collecting strategy, M.S. Rau can support you on this journey.

Jewelry

For more than a century, M.S. Rau has offered clients a superb selection of the highest quality jewelry. From the rarest colored diamonds, to the most sublime gemstones, to the most exquisite designer jewelry, M.S. Rau houses. . .

For more than a century, M.S. Rau has offered clients a superb selection of the highest quality jewelry. From the rarest colored diamonds, to the most sublime gemstones, to the most exquisite designer jewelry, M.S. Rau houses an extraordinary collection of fine jewels to satisfy the most discerning collector. Stunning creations by Tiffany & Co., Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Harry Winston and Patek Philippe are offered alongside extreme rarities such as vivid yellow, pink and blue diamonds, coveted Burma and Kashmir sapphires and elusive Golconda diamonds prized for their fire and perfection. Iconic jewels from the Art Deco, Edwardian, Art Nouveau and Victorian periods round out the collection.

Antiques

Since 1912, M.S. Rau has been recognized as a leader in the antiques industry and today our collections of rare silver, furniture, clocks, porcelain, glass and objets d'art are second to none. Our commitment to curating the. . .

Since 1912, M.S. Rau has been recognized as a leader in the antiques industry and today our collections of rare silver, furniture, clocks, porcelain, glass and objets d'art are second to none. Our commitment to curating the world’s most extraordinary and beautiful treasures has remained steadfast and our acquisition philosophy is simple: seek out and acquire only the very finest works whose provenance, beauty and rarity set them apart from all others. Our clients can be certain that each and every piece in our gallery has been hand-selected and carefully vetted for authenticity, condition and provenance. And, because our network of contacts spans generations, we are often able to acquire pieces that may have otherwise never been available on the market.

Whether you are just starting your collection, adding to an existing collection or even decorating your home, our team’s knowledge and experience can assist you in your endeavor. We have services and procedures in place to make your acquisition process both enjoyable and efficient.