Lobster Fork, "Saratoga Pattern"
Decorative Arts and Design
MEDIUM
Silver-plate
DATES
patented September 6, 1881
DIMENSIONS
6 1/4 x 11/16 x 11/16 in. (15.9 x 1.8 x 1.7 cm)
MARKINGS
Stamped on back: "(star) ROGERS & BROS A1"
SIGNATURE
Unsigned
INSCRIPTIONS
no inscriptions
ACCESSION NUMBER
1989.66.4
CREDIT LINE
Gift of Kevin L. Stayton
CATALOGUE DESCRIPTION
Lobster fork, silver-plate with two long, broad tines with sharp points and a deep pointed void between. Decoration begins with two half fronds that fill a slight bulge at the beginning of the handle. The next motif is two 3/4 florets separated by a narrow band of five small molded dots. The next inch of the handle with straight sides is decorated with three narrow vertical lines flanked by two rows of small dots vertically arranged, topped by another 3/4 floret and another narrow horizontal band of five dots. Then there is a small rounded projection that contains a molded "X" with tiny florets in each interstice, topped by another narrow band of molded dots and another 3/4 floret topped by an arched band of small dots. Above is a symmetrical stylized branch with three flowers and four pairs of leaves against a stippled ground in an elongated hexagonal area topped by horizontal band of five molded florets. End of handle is a large trapezoidal area with an incised gothic initial "M" topped by an arched band of five florets in roundels that fit into the gently arched end of the handle. Reverse has similar but abbreviated decoration. Saratoga Pattern.
Condition: Good. Bright finish with slight overall scratching. Some wear to design on arched band of roundels at end of handle.
MUSEUM LOCATION
This item is not on view
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